New York uses a hybrid approach: it combines both parents’ income like an income-shares state, then applies a flat statutory percentage like a percentage-of-income state. The result is the Child Support Standards Act (CSSA) formula.
The CSSA Formula
Codified at Domestic Relations Law §240(1-b) and Family Court Act §413, the CSSA multiplies combined parental income by a percentage set by the number of children, then splits that number between the parents based on their share of the combined income.
The Statutory Percentages
- 1 child: 17% of combined parental income
- 2 children: 25%
- 3 children: 29%
- 4 children: 31%
- 5 or more children: no less than 35%
Getting to “CSSA Income”
Courts start with each parent’s gross income, then subtract FICA taxes, New York City or Yonkers income tax (if applicable), and any maintenance actually being paid to a former spouse. The two resulting figures are added together to get combined parental income.
The Income Cap
As of March 1, 2026, the CSSA percentages apply automatically to combined parental income up to $193,000 a year, up from $183,000; the cap adjusts every two years for inflation. Above that figure, applying the percentage isn’t automatic — courts can still apply it, or instead weigh statutory factors such as the child’s needs and the standard of living they would have had if the family had stayed together.
What Gets Added On Top
- Childcare costs needed for a parent to work or attend school
- The child’s health insurance and unreimbursed medical expenses
- Educational expenses, in some cases
These add-ons are prorated by each parent’s share of income, separate from the base percentage calculation.
Estimate Your New York Child Support
The Child Support Calculator applies the CSSA percentages to your numbers for a quick estimate — useful before or alongside a full worksheet.
Official Resources
- New York Child Support Program (OTDA)
- New York Domestic Relations Law §240 (Custody and Child Support)
- Child Support Calculator (childpaycalc.com)
This guide is for general information only and is not legal advice. Formulas, percentages, and dollar caps change over time and courts can deviate from the guideline result — confirm current figures with the official resources above or a family law attorney before relying on any number.