Does TN Require a Certain Amount of Child Support?

The Tennessee family court holds the standard that a child benefits the most when both parents are physically present in their life. In a similar sense, the court holds that a child benefits the most when both parents financially contribute to their life. This is why a child support arrangement is important to establish during divorce proceedings. So without further ado, please read on to discover whether Tennessee guidelines require a certain amount of child support to be paid and how one of the seasoned Clarksville child support lawyers at Fendley and Etson can help your child receive the funds necessary.

Do Tennessee guidelines require a certain amount of child support?

Essentially, the state of Tennessee’s child support guidelines are based on the income shares model. This model is used in 40 states to calculate child support amounts. It does so by considering the combined adjusted gross income of both parents, the number of children both parents share, the parenting time both parents were granted, and the income disparity between both parents, among other factors. In the end, though, Tennessee’s statutory maximums for child support read as follows:

• For one child: both parents should contribute a maximum of $2,100 per month in child support.
• For two children: up to $3,200 per month.
• For three children: up to $4,100 per month.
• For four children: up to $4,600 per month.
• For five or more children: $5,000 or more per month.

What factors might increase or decrease the amount of child support ordered?

It is worth mentioning that if you and your child’s other parent are considered high-net-worth individuals, the Tennessee family court may order child support that exceeds the statutory maximums. That is, if your combined income is more than $28,250 per month. With this, you may be expected to pay the following:

• For one child: the statutory maximum plus 6.81 percent of your combined income over $28,250 per month.
• For two children: plus 7.22 percent.
• For three children: plus 7.77 percent.
• For four children: plus 8.05 percent.
• For five or more children: plus 8.66 percent or more.

On the other hand, though, if you and your child’s other parent are considered low-income individuals, the court may adjust from the imposed guidelines based on the self-service reserve statute. Essentially, this is the amount of money a parent may need to support themself before they can be ordered to pay child support. As of 2024, federal poverty income guidelines hold the self-service reserve at $20,331 per year. With this, the statutory minimum for child support is at least $100 per month.

We understand just how tricky it may be for you to navigate the amount of financial support your child needs and deserves. So do not wait for another second. Please retain the services of one of the competent Clarksville family lawyers from Fendley and Etson today. We look forward to working with you and taking on your case.