Child Support Guidelines in Delaware
The model, the factors, and the official table for Delaware.
Reference only — no accounts, no personal data collected.Delaware sets child support through statewide guidelines. This page explains the calculation model Delaware uses, the factors that go into it, and where to find the official support schedule.
The Model Used in Delaware
Delaware uses the Melson Formula. After reserving a self-support amount for each parent and a standard-of-living allowance for the children, the remaining income is shared proportionally between the parents and the children.
Factors Delaware Considers
- Each parent's gross income
- A self-support reserve (primary support allowance) for each parent
- A children's standard-of-living allowance
- Remaining net income shared proportionally between parents and children
- Childcare, health insurance, and uninsured medical costs
Base Obligation Table
The dollar amounts come from the Delaware Child Support Schedule, published by the Delaware Division of Child Support Services. The schedule turns the inputs above into a monthly obligation. See the official schedule on the agency site: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dcse/.
Delaware uses the Melson Formula, which reserves a self-support amount for each parent before child shares are computed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What model does Delaware use for child support?
Delaware uses the Melson model. See "The Model Used in Delaware" above for how it works.
Does parenting time affect support in Delaware?
Yes. Delaware adjusts the obligation for the number of overnights the non-custodial parent has, because shared parenting lowers the custodial parent's direct costs.
Where do I find the official Delaware support table?
The official schedule is published by the Delaware Division of Child Support Services. A link is in the "Base Obligation Table" section above.
Is this the final amount I will pay or receive?
Not necessarily. Courts can deviate for extraordinary medical needs, private school, or travel costs. Use the official schedule or a family-law attorney for a case-specific number.