South Dakota uses an income shares model per SDCL §25-7-6.2. Schedule covers $1,200-$20,000/mo combined NET. Approximate percentages: 1 child ~16%, 2 ~24%, 3 ~29%, 4 ~33%, 5 ~36%. Above schedule: court discretion.
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South Dakota calculates child support using the Income shares using combined NET monthly income established under SDCL §25-7-6.2. This is a statutory formula that leaves limited room for judicial discretion on the base calculation amount, ensuring consistency and predictability for families across the state.
Total obligation from schedule (combined NET x percentage for # children) x obligor income share.
The calculation begins with determining each parent's net disposable income, which includes virtually all sources of income minus taxes, mandatory payroll deductions, and certain hardship deductions. The court then applies the statutory formula using the time each parent has primary physical responsibility for the children and the applicable income allocation brackets.
Beyond the base formula amount, South Dakotarequires additional contributions for mandatory add-on expenses. These typically include childcare costs necessary for the custodial parent's employment or education, uninsured healthcare expenses for the children, and in some cases, educational and travel costs. These add-ons are split between parents in proportion to their respective incomes.
Primary statute: SDCL §25-7-6.2
Income shares model using combined NET monthly income.
Schedule covers $1,200-$20,000/mo combined.
Above schedule maximum: court discretion based on needs.
No state income tax.
No state income tax — NET income = gross minus federal tax and FICA only.
Answer a few questions about your income, custody, and children. Get your personalized estimate.
Residency Requirement
NO minimum residency — just be a resident when filing
Mandatory Waiting Period
No mandatory waiting period
No-Fault Ground
Irreconcilable differences (requires spouse agreement; if contested must prove fault)
State Income Tax
No state income tax.
South Dakota uses the Income shares using combined NET monthly income under SDCL §25-7-6.2. South Dakota uses an income shares model per SDCL §25-7-6.2. Schedule covers $1,200-$20,000/mo combined NET. Approximate percentages: 1 child ~16%, 2 ~24%, 3 ~29%, 4 ~33%, 5 ~36%. Above schedule: court discretion.
Key factors include both parents' income, the number of children, custodial time share, mandatory add-on expenses (childcare, health insurance), and any applicable deductions. Income shares model using combined NET monthly income.
Yes. Either parent can request a modification if there has been a material change in circumstances, such as a significant change in income, custody arrangements, or the needs of the child. The court will recalculate support using the same statutory formula.
Total obligation from schedule (combined NET x percentage for # children) x obligor income share.
Get a personalized child support calculation based on South Dakota's actual statutory formula.
Start My Free South DakotaEstimate →This tool provides educational estimates based on South Dakota family law and does not constitute legal advice. Child support calculations are approximations of the statutory formula and may differ from court-ordered amounts. Consult a licensed South Dakota family law attorney before making decisions. Primary statute: SDCL §25-7-6.2.