Child support in Alabama is designed to ensure that both parents contribute to the financial well-being of their children, regardless of marital status. Whether you are divorced, legally separated, or never married, understanding the basics of child support in Alabama is essential to navigating the legal system and protecting your child’s best interests.
How Alabama Calculates Child Support
Alabama uses the income shares model to calculate child support. This method estimates how much parents would typically spend on their child if they were living together and then divides that obligation proportionally between both parents.
Step 1: Determine Each Parent’s Adjusted Gross Income
The first step in calculating child support is to establish each parent’s adjusted gross income (AGI). This includes:
- Wages, salaries, bonuses, and commissions
- Self-employment income
- Social Security benefits (excluding Supplemental Security Income)
- Pension and annuity payments
- Rental income and dividends
Deductions are allowed for:
- Pre-existing child support payments for other children
- Alimony paid to a former spouse
Once these are factored in, each parent’s AGI is calculated for child support purposes.
Step 2: Combine Both Parents' Incomes
The next step is to combine both parents' AGIs. This combined figure determines the starting point for the basic child support obligation according to the Schedule of Basic Child Support Obligations.
Step 3: Apply the Child Support Schedule
Alabama courts refer to the schedule of basic child support obligations, which lists recommended support amounts based on combined parental income and the number of children involved. For example:
Combined Adjusted Gross Income | 1 Child | 2 Children | 3 Children |
$4,000 | $820 | $1,200 | $1,450 |
$6,000 | $1,100 | $1,600 | $1,950 |
Each parent’s contribution is determined by their share of the total combined income. For example, if one parent earns 70% of the combined AGI, they are responsible for 70% of the amount of child support.
Adjustments to Child Support
The basic calculation can be adjusted to include:
- Health insurance premiums for the child
- Work-related childcare expenses
- Extraordinary medical, dental, or educational costs
These additional costs are also split between the parents based on their income shares.
Custody Arrangements and Child Support
Custody arrangements directly impact child support in Alabama. The standard formula assumes one parent is the custodial parent (providing primary care), while the other is the non-custodial parent, typically paying support.
However, Alabama allows for variations based on custody:
- Sole Custody: The non-custodial parent pays support based on income.
- Joint Physical Custody: When parents share physical custody, the court may adjust support to reflect each parent’s amount of time spent with the child and their respective financial contributions.
- Split Custody: When each parent is the custodial parent for at least one child, separate calculations are done for each child’s support.
The Self-Support Reserve
Alabama incorporates a Self-Support Reserve (SSR) to ensure that parents retain enough income to meet their basic needs after paying child support. As of 2025, the SSR is set at $981 per month. Courts may adjust the support order to prevent the paying parent from falling below this amount, though the minimum child support obligation is typically $50 per month.
Deviating from Alabama Child Support Guidelines
While the Alabama child support guidelines provide a standardized method, judges have discretion to order a different amount if strict application of the formula would be unjust or inappropriate. Examples of valid deviations include:
- High transportation costs for visitation
- Children’s special needs or educational expenses
- Significant disparity in parental income or financial resources
- Agreements between parents, provided they meet the child’s needs
Preventing Avoidance of Child Support
In cases where a parent is voluntarily unemployed or underemployed, Alabama courts may assign imputed income. This means the court will base child support payments on the income the parent is capable of earning, rather than what they currently report. This protects children from financial harm caused by intentional reductions in parental income.
How to Apply for Child Support in Alabama
Parents can establish child support through:
- Family Court Proceedings: Often filed during divorce or custody arrangements with the help of a family law attorney.
- The Alabama Department of Human Resources (DHR): The DHR assists with creating, modifying, and enforcing child support orders. Applications can be filed at your local DHR office or online.
Modifying Child Support in Alabama
Parents can request a modification of child support if there has been a significant change in circumstances. Common reasons include:
- Job loss or significant change in income
- Change in custody arrangements or amount of time spent with the child
- Child’s medical or educational expenses increasing
- A parent becoming permanently disabled
Courts generally require a 10% or more change in the calculated support amount under current guidelines to approve a modification.
Duration of Child Support
In Alabama, child support usually continues until the child turns 19, which is considered the age of majority. However, support may extend beyond 19 if:
- The child is disabled and cannot become self-supporting
- The parents agree in writing to continue support (e.g., to cover college expenses)
Enforcement of Child Support
Failure to pay court-ordered child support can lead to enforcement actions, such as:
- Income withholding orders (automatic payroll deductions)
- Suspension of driver’s or professional licenses
- Garnishment of tax refunds
- Contempt of court proceedings, which may result in fines or jail time
The Child Support Enforcement Division of the DHR assists custodial parents in enforcing orders and collecting past-due support.
By following the Alabama child support guidelines and working with a qualified family law attorney, parents can ensure fair support orders that prioritize their children’s needs while balancing each parent’s financial capabilities.
For personalized assistance with child support in Alabama, consult with a local family law professional to protect your rights and your child’s future.