South Dakota Child Support Calculator (2026)

Estimate your child support payments in South Dakota using our free calculator based on the official SD Guidelines (SDCL 25-7-6.2). Enter your income details below to get an instant estimate.

South Dakota Child Support Calculator

Based on South Dakota's 2024 SD Guidelines (SDCL 25-7-6.2)

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This is an estimate only. See our full disclaimer.

Key Facts: Child Support in South Dakota

  • South Dakota uses the Income Shares model, basing child support on both parents' combined net income.
  • The state schedule covers combined net monthly incomes up to $12,000.
  • Each parent pays their proportional share based on their percentage of the combined net income.
  • South Dakota includes adjustments for health insurance, child care costs, and parenting time.
  • A self-support reserve ensures the paying parent retains enough income for basic living expenses.

Source: SD Guidelines (SDCL 25-7-6.2) • Last verified: 2026-05-30

How Much Is Child Support in South Dakota?

If you make $60,000 a year in South Dakota, child support for 1 child is estimated at $513 per month ($6,156 per year) based on the SD Guidelines (SDCL 25-7-6.2). This assumes the other parent earns approximately $36,000/year. Actual amounts depend on both parents' incomes, custody arrangements, and additional expenses.

If you make $1,000 a week ($52,000/year) in South Dakota, child support for 1 child is approximately $469/month.

South Dakota Child Support Estimates by Income (2026)

Annual Income 1 Child 2 Children 3 Children
$40,000/yr $397/mo $549/mo $648/mo
$50,000/yr $458/mo $636/mo $753/mo
$60,000/yr $513/mo $713/mo $843/mo
$70,000/yr $561/mo $779/mo $923/mo
$80,000/yr $604/mo $841/mo $996/mo
$100,000/yr $642/mo $896/mo $1,061/mo
$120,000/yr $643/mo $896/mo $1,061/mo

Estimates assume the other parent earns 60% of your income. Actual amounts vary based on both parents' incomes, custody time, and adjustments. Compare all states →

How Child Support Is Calculated in South Dakota

South Dakota uses the Income Shares model to calculate child support obligations. This model combines both parents' incomes to determine the total child support obligation, then divides it proportionally based on each parent's share of the combined income.

Factors That Affect Child Support in South Dakota

Both parents' net monthly incomes
Number of children requiring support
Health insurance costs for the children
Work-related child care costs
Parenting time schedule
Other child support obligations
Extraordinary medical or educational expenses

Important Notes for South Dakota

  • South Dakota uses the Income Shares model, combining both parents' net incomes to determine the total child support obligation.
  • Each parent's share is proportional to their percentage of the combined net income.
  • The schedule covers combined net monthly incomes up to $12,000. For incomes above this amount, the court uses discretion.

Example Child Support Calculation in South Dakota

Scenario: Parent A earns $5,000/month, Parent B earns $3,000/month, 2 children.

Step 1: Combined monthly income: $5,000 + $3,000 = $8,000

Step 2: Parent A's income share: $5,000 / $8,000 = 62.5%

Step 3: Look up basic obligation from the guidelines schedule for $8,000 combined income and 2 children.

Step 4: Multiply the basic obligation by Parent A's share (62.5%) to determine their payment.

Note: Additional adjustments for health insurance, child care, and parenting time may apply.

Frequently Asked Questions About South Dakota Child Support

How is child support calculated in South Dakota?
South Dakota uses the Income Shares model. Both parents' net incomes are combined, and a basic child support obligation is determined from the state schedule (covering combined net incomes up to $12,000/month). Each parent pays their proportional share based on their percentage of the combined income. Adjustments are made for health insurance, child care, and parenting time.
What is net income for South Dakota child support?
South Dakota uses net income, which is gross income minus federal and state income taxes, Social Security taxes, Medicare taxes, and mandatory retirement contributions. All sources of income are considered, including wages, self-employment income, bonuses, and investment income.
Does shared custody affect child support in South Dakota?
Yes, South Dakota considers parenting time when calculating child support. If the non-custodial parent has the children for a significant portion of the time (generally more than 28% of overnights), the court may adjust the child support obligation to reflect the direct costs incurred during that time.
Can South Dakota child support be modified?
Yes, child support orders in South Dakota can be modified if there is a substantial change in circumstances. This includes significant income changes, changes in custody or parenting time, or changes in the children's needs. The Department of Social Services can review orders for modification.
How long does child support last in South Dakota?
In South Dakota, child support typically continues until the child turns 18, or until age 19 if the child is still attending high school. Support may continue for adult children with disabilities who are unable to support themselves.

About This Calculator

This calculator uses the official SD Guidelines (SDCL 25-7-6.2) (2024 guidelines) to estimate child support in South Dakota. Calculations were last verified against the official source on 2026-05-30.

Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates only and does not constitute legal advice. Actual child support amounts are determined by South Dakota courts and may differ based on factors not included here. For legal advice, consult a South Dakota family law attorney.

Our methodology: Based on the Income Shares model as defined in the SD Guidelines (SDCL 25-7-6.2). Updated for 2026.

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