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Delaware Child Support Calculator & Guidelines (2026)

Estimate Delaware child support under Del. Fam. Ct. Civ. R. 500 (Melson formula) — Melson Formula model, current caps and percentages, with a step-by-step worked example.

This state uses a worksheet/table-based guideline that cannot be fully reproduced in a simplified tool. The range above is an approximation — use the official state calculator for the guideline figure. Official state calculator →

Estimate Your Child Support

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Delaware Child Support Rules at a Glance

Guideline model Melson Formula
Income basis Net (after-tax) income
How it works Both parents’ incomes are combined, a basic obligation is taken from the state’s official schedule, and each parent pays in proportion to their share of combined income.
Statute / rule Del. Fam. Ct. Civ. R. 500 (Melson formula)
Parameters verified pending full verification (model and statute confirmed)

Worked Example: $5,000 + $3,000 Income, Two Children

  1. Paying parent’s monthly income: $5,000 - other parent’s: $3,000 - two children, primary custody.
  2. Simplified income shares estimate: combined income $8,000 x 24% (two children) = $1,920 basic obligation.
  3. Paying parent’s share: 62.5% of $1,920 = $1,200 - shown as a range of $1,020-$1,380 to reflect state schedule differences.
  4. For the exact figure use the official state calculator linked below - this state’s guideline uses its own obligation schedule.

Result: $1,020 - $1,380 per month (simplified range)

Delaware Child Support FAQ

How is child support calculated in Delaware?

Delaware uses the Melson formula under Del. Fam. Ct. Civ. R. 500 (Melson formula) - a variant of income shares that first reserves a self-support allowance for each parent before allocating support. It requires the official worksheet for an accurate figure.

Does Delaware use gross or net income for child support?

Delaware calculates support on net (after-tax) income as defined in Del. Fam. Ct. Civ. R. 500 (Melson formula).

Can a Delaware court order more or less than the guideline amount?

Yes. The guideline amount under Del. Fam. Ct. Civ. R. 500 (Melson formula) is presumptive, not absolute - courts may deviate with written findings for factors like extraordinary medical or educational needs, other children supported, or very high income beyond the guideline range.

How do I apply for or modify child support in Delaware?

Apply through the Delaware child support agency or the family court in your county. Existing orders can be modified on a substantial change in circumstances - typically a significant income change, job loss, or a change in custody. The official calculator/worksheet is linked on this page (courts.delaware.gov).

Official Delaware Resources

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About This Estimate

Estimate only — not legal advice. Based on Delaware guidelines (Del. Fam. Ct. Civ. R. 500 (Melson formula)). Courts may deviate. For an official figure use the official Delaware calculator.