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Illinois Child Support Calculator & Guidelines (2026)

Estimate Illinois child support under 750 ILCS 5/505 (2026 HFS schedule, eff. Mar. 20, 2026) — Income Shares model, current caps and percentages, with a step-by-step worked example.

Estimate Your Child Support

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Illinois Child Support Rules at a Glance

Guideline model Income Shares
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.
Caps & limits Illinois updates its schedule annually - this uses the 2026 schedule (effective March 20, 2026), combined monthly net income bands to ~$26,000; above the top band courts may treat the top amount as a minimum
Statute / rule 750 ILCS 5/505 (2026 HFS schedule, eff. Mar. 20, 2026)
Parameters verified 2026-07

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. Combined monthly income: $8,000 - basic obligation from the official 750 ILCS 5/505 (2026 HFS schedule, eff. Mar. 20, 2026) schedule for two children: $2,137.
  3. Paying parent’s share of combined income: 62.5% - $2,137 x 62.5% = $1,336 per month.

Result: $1,336 per month

Illinois Child Support FAQ

How is child support calculated in Illinois?

Illinois uses the income shares model under 750 ILCS 5/505 (2026 HFS schedule, eff. Mar. 20, 2026): both parents’ incomes are combined, a basic obligation is determined, and each parent is responsible for their proportional share. 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.

Does Illinois use gross or net income for child support?

Illinois calculates support on net (after-tax) income as defined in 750 ILCS 5/505 (2026 HFS schedule, eff. Mar. 20, 2026). Illinois updates its schedule annually - this uses the 2026 schedule (effective March 20, 2026), combined monthly net income bands to ~$26,000; above the top band courts may treat the top amount as a minimum.

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

Yes. The guideline amount under 750 ILCS 5/505 (2026 HFS schedule, eff. Mar. 20, 2026) 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 Illinois?

Apply through the Illinois 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 (hfs.illinois.gov).

Official Illinois Resources

Related Calculators & States

About This Estimate

Estimate only — not legal advice. Based on Illinois guidelines (750 ILCS 5/505 (2026 HFS schedule, eff. Mar. 20, 2026)), last verified 2026-07. Courts may deviate. For an official figure use the official Illinois calculator.