Estimate Maryland child support under Md. Code Fam. Law § 12-204(e) — Income Shares model, current caps and percentages, with a step-by-step worked example.
| Guideline model | Income Shares |
|---|---|
| Income basis | Gross (pre-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 | Schedule covers combined monthly adjusted income $1,200-$30,000 with amounts interpolated between rows (§ 12-204(e)); low rows marked * are self-support-reserve adjusted; above $30,000 the court exercises discretion |
| Statute / rule | Md. Code Fam. Law § 12-204(e) |
| Parameters verified | 2026-09 |
Result: $1,093 per month
Maryland uses the income shares model under Md. Code Fam. Law § 12-204(e): 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.
Maryland calculates support on gross (pre-tax) income as defined in Md. Code Fam. Law § 12-204(e). Schedule covers combined monthly adjusted income $1,200-$30,000 with amounts interpolated between rows (§ 12-204(e)); low rows marked * are self-support-reserve adjusted; above $30,000 the court exercises discretion.
Yes. The guideline amount under Md. Code Fam. Law § 12-204(e) 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.
Apply through the Maryland 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 (www.marylandattorneygeneral.gov).
Estimate only — not legal advice. Based on Maryland guidelines (Md. Code Fam. Law § 12-204(e)), last verified 2026-09. Courts may deviate. For an official figure use the official Maryland calculator.