How Wisconsin Calculates Child Support
Wisconsin uses the Percentage of Obligor Income model to determine child support obligations. This page explains the guidelines, formula, and key factors.
Model Type
Percentage of Obligor Income (gross income)
Wisconsin uses a percentage-of-income standard applied to the gross income of the paying parent: 17% for 1 child, 25% for 2, 29% for 3, 31% for 4, 34% for 5+. Shared-time payer adjustment applies when each parent has placement at least 25% of the time.
Income Basis & Definitions
gross income (paying parent only)
Determines percentage: 17% (1), 25% (2), 29% (3), 31% (4), 34% (5+).
Source: Standard percentage tableGross income of the paying parent used as the base for the percentage calculation.
Source: Gross income definitionParenting Time Handling
If each parent has at least 25% placement (92+ overnights), the shared-time formula applies, considering both parents incomes.
Source: Shared-time payer formula (25%+ placement threshold)Deductions & Adjustments
Support obligations for other children may reduce the percentage or income base.
Source: Serial family adjustment