Delaware uses the Melson Formula — a three-tier calculation. This tool provides an estimate only. Updated for 2026 — covers 50/50 custody, arrears, modifications and Delaware child support laws.
MelsonFormula
NoneIncome Cap
18Age Support Ends
9.5%Arrears Interest
🔵 Delaware Melson Formula Model
Delaware Child Support Calculator 2026
Delaware uses the Melson Formula — a three-tier calculation. This tool provides an estimate only.
⚠Delaware uses the Melson Formula — one of the most complex child support models in the US. This calculator provides an estimate only. For exact figures, consult a Delaware family law attorney.
$
$0$20k
$
$0$20k
$
$
Estimated Monthly Child Support
$0
per month
Annual Total
$0
Combined Income
—
Until Age
18
* Estimate using official Delaware melson formula. Courts may deviate based on special circumstances. Consult a Delaware family law attorney for your specific situation. The Melson Formula requires professional calculation.
🔵 How Delaware Calculates Child Support
ModelMelson Formula — three-tier calculation
Income CapNo set cap — courts use discretion
Minimum Order$25/month minimum regardless of income
Arrears Interest9.5% annual interest on unpaid arrears
Delaware Key RuleDelaware uses the Melson Formula — one of only 3 states to do so
Additional InfoThe Melson Formula ensures each parent keeps enough for basic needs before support is calculated
⚖ 50/50 Custody in Delaware
Does Child Support Apply With 50/50 Custody in Delaware?
In most cases, yes. Delaware does not automatically eliminate child support with equal parenting time.
✓General rule: With 50/50 custody, the higher-earning parent typically pays the lower-earning parent. The amount is reduced vs sole custody but rarely reaches $0.
$
$0$15k
$
$0$15k
Estimated Monthly Payment
$0
per month
Without Custody Adj.
$0
Custody Reduction
$0
Net Payment
$0
* 50/50 custody calculations are complex. This is an approximation. Consult a Delaware family law attorney for exact figures.
📋 Delaware Arrears Calculator
Delaware Child Support Arrears Calculator
Calculate total back child support including 9.5% annual interest Delaware applies to unpaid arrears.
⚠Delaware charges 9.5% annual interest on all unpaid child support arrears.
$
$
$
Total Arrears Owed (with 9.5% Interest)
$0
including Delaware 9.5% annual interest
Base Arrears
$0
Interest Accrued
$0
Clear in 1 Year
$0
Clear in 2 Years
$0
Clear in 3 Years
$0
Support Ends Age
18
* Delaware applies 9.5% annual interest to unpaid child support. There is generally no statute of limitations on child support debt.
🔄 Modification Estimator
Delaware Child Support Modification
Estimate your new payment and check if you qualify for a modification in Delaware.
ℹModification rule: Most states allow modification when the new amount differs by 15-20% or $100/month, OR when there is a material and substantial change in circumstances (job loss, new child, custody change).
$
36+ months = eligible for routine review
$
Estimated New Monthly Payment
$0
per month
Current Order
$0
New Calculated
$0
Difference
$0
% Change
0%
Likely Qualifies?
—
Time Since Order
—
* Qualification estimate only. Consult a Delaware family law attorney before filing.
📜 Updated 2026
Delaware Child Support Laws 2026
Key rules, age cutoffs and what you need to know in Delaware.
FORMULA How Delaware Calculates Child Support
Delaware Family Court Civil Rule 52(d) governs child support. The Melson Formula was developed by Delaware courts and is more complex than standard models — it accounts for each parent’s self-support reserve before calculating child support.
AGE When Does Child Support End in Delaware?
Child support in Delaware ends when the child turns 18 — Support ends at 18 or high school graduation. Support also ends upon the child’s death, marriage or emancipation. Important: In most cases support does not stop automatically — you need a court order. Stopping payments without a court order creates arrears even after the child reaches the cutoff age.
INTEREST Arrears Interest in Delaware
Delaware charges 9.5% annual interest on unpaid child support arrears. There is generally no statute of limitations on child support debt.
ENFORCEMENT Delaware Child Support Enforcement
Delaware has broad enforcement powers including wage garnishment, tax refund interception, driver’s license suspension, professional license suspension, passport denial, and credit bureau reporting. Criminal charges may apply for significant or long-term non-payment.
MODIFY Modifying Child Support in Delaware
Child support can be modified in Delaware when there is a material and substantial change in circumstances — typically a significant income change, job loss, new children from another relationship, or change in custody. Most states also allow a periodic review every 3 years. File a petition with the court — private agreements to change support are not legally enforceable.
📅 Delaware Payment Calendar
Child Support Payment Calendar 2026
Generate your personal payment schedule and track payments month by month.
$
Monthly Total
$0
Annual Total
$0
Next Payment
—
Days Until Due
—
Payments Remaining
—
Marked Paid
$0
* Click Mark as Paid to track payments. Always keep payment receipts.
Need a Delaware Family Law Attorney?
This calculator provides estimates. For filing, modifying or enforcing a child support order, connect with a local family law attorney.