Child support in Wisconsin doesn’t follow a one-size-fits-all rule. It depends on a few important factors that can shape what you pay or receive. Understanding what influences the amount helps you stay informed and prepared.
Income plays the biggest role
Your income directly impacts the child support amount. The court looks at gross income, which includes wages, bonuses, commissions, and even unemployment or disability benefits. If you have a variable income, the court may average it over time. If you’re self-employed, income may include business profits. The more you earn, the higher the support, based on a percentage set by the state.
Parenting time affects the calculation
How many overnights your child spends with you can change what you pay or receive. Wisconsin uses a shared-placement formula when both parents have the child for at least 25% of the time. The more equal the placement, the more the formula considers both incomes. Less time with the child usually means paying a larger share.
Other children matter too
If you support other children from a different relationship, the court factors that in. It can reduce the percentage applied to your income. This helps keep support fair across families. Courts want to balance the needs of all children involved without creating hardship for parents.
Health care and special needs influence support
The court may adjust child support to cover medical costs, insurance, or special needs. If your child has ongoing care or education expenses, the support order may reflect that. These costs aren’t always split 50/50, especially if one parent earns significantly more.
Changes in circumstances can update orders
Support orders aren’t locked in forever. A change in various circumstances can lead to a modification. If things shift over time, you have the right to ask for a review.
