When you've filled in the boxes and clicked on the calculate button, you'll see a rough estimate of the amount of child support that the noncustodial parent will have to pay to the custodial parent.
But note that Nevada frequently updates its child support guidelines, including by changing the percentages of gross income in the schedule for determining the basic child support obligation. You can use the official Nevada Child Support Guidelines Calculator to calculate the basic support obligation under the state's current guidelines.
Judges in Nevada may adjust the basic child support obligation, as calculated under the formula, to account for things like child care costs, health care expenses, the child's special needs, and the parents' economic circumstances. Also, there's a special schedule for low-income parents. (Nev. Admin. Code §§ 425.130, 425.130, 425.140, 425.145, 425.150 (2022).)
Even after these adjustments, the amount of child support calculated under the Nevada guidelines won't necessarily apply in every situation. The state presumes that amount will meet the child's needs. But the judge might allow a different amount if you can prove that the guideline amount either doesn't meet your child's needs or exceeds those needs. (Nev. Admin. Code § 425.100 (2022).)
Learn more about how child support works in Nevada.
Typically, you'll apply for child support as part of the process of filing for divorce in Nevada. You'll include a completed Child Support Worksheet along with the other divorce papers.
If you aren't married to your child's other parent, you may get help with requesting support by applying for child support services with the Division of Welfare and Supportive Services (DWSS) in the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services. If needed, the DWSS can also help with establishing the child's legal parentage.
If you're having trouble collecting support payments, the Nevada DWSS can also help with child support enforcement. Typically, child support payments will be withheld from the paying parent's paychecks. When that isn't appropriate, parents may pay child support online. Parents who are receiving child support can arrange direct deposits or use the Nevada Child Support Debit Card.
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