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Oregon Child Support Calculator

Calculate estimated child support using Oregon's official guidelines

Income Shares Model

About Oregon's Guidelines

Income Shares Model

Note: Parenting time credit for 92+ overnights

Key Information

  • Model: Income Shares
  • Last Updated: January 15, 2024

Common Deviation Factors

Parenting time (92+ overnights)Childcare costsMedical expenses

Monthly Income

$
$

Children & Custody

0 = no overnights182 = equal custody365 = full custody

Additional Monthly Expenses

$
$
$
$
$
$
$

Estimates only — not legal advice. Consult a Oregon family law attorney for official calculations.

Official Oregon Court Forms

Download official court forms from the Oregon judiciary website. These are free, legally valid forms for your family court case.

These links go to official Oregon court websites. Forms are free and provided by the state judiciary.

Oregon Child Support Guidelines

Income Shares ModelLast updated: 2024-01-01

Oregon uses the Oregon Child Support Guidelines (OAR 137-050-0700 to 0765) to determine child support obligations. Under the Income Shares model, both parents' incomes are combined to estimate what the family would have spent on the child if the household were intact. The obligation is then divided proportionally based on each parent's contribution to combined gross income.

Oregon has several distinctive features in its child support system. Oregon applies a parenting time credit starting at just 92 overnights (25%) — lower than most income-shares states. The state uses a unique "Social Security credit" — if either parent receives SSA benefits, it affects the calculation. Oregon has an official online calculator provided by the Department of Justice that is widely used by courts.

Oregon bases calculations on gross income — meaning income before taxes and deductions. This includes wages, salaries, commissions, bonuses, self-employment income, and other sources. The self-support reserve in Oregon is $1,350/month, ensuring the paying parent retains enough income to cover basic living expenses.

How Oregon Calculates Child Support

Oregon follows a 6-step process under the Oregon Child Support Guidelines (OAR 137-050-0700 to 0765):

  1. 1

    Calculate each parent's gross monthly income

  2. 2

    Apply the Oregon income conversion (gross to "adjusted" income)

  3. 3

    Combine adjusted incomes and find the basic obligation

  4. 4

    Prorate based on income shares

  5. 5

    Apply parenting time credit if 92+ overnights

  6. 6

    Add shares of childcare and health insurance

Income Thresholds & Key Numbers in Oregon

Self-Support Reserve

$1,350/mo

Shared Custody Threshold

92 nights/yr

25% of overnights

Income Basis

gross

Sample Obligation Schedule

Combined Monthly Income1 Child2 Children3 Children
$1,500$252$365$435
$3,000$455$663$804
$5,000$665$975$1,185
$8,000$920$1,355$1,648
$12,000$1,195$1,762$2,145

* Simplified schedule. Actual amounts may vary based on additional factors.

Custody Time Adjustments in Oregon

Oregon recognizes "Parenting Time Credit" when the non-custodial parent has the children for at least 92 overnights per year (approximately 25% of the time). When this threshold is met, the standard child support formula is adjusted to reflect the increased direct expenses borne by both parents.

Under Oregon's Income Shares approach, the shared parenting adjustment typically calculates each parent's obligation based on their income share, then applies a credit or cross-calculation that accounts for the time each parent directly supports the child. The more overnights the non-custodial parent has, the greater the reduction in their payment — but the adjustment is not dollar-for-dollar because fixed costs like housing don't decrease when the child is away.

Below 92 overnights, Oregon generally treats the arrangement as a sole custody situation with standard visitation, and no custody time adjustment is applied to the child support calculation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Oregon Child Support

What is Oregon's parenting time threshold?

Oregon starts applying a parenting time credit at 92 overnights per year (about 25%). This is lower than many income-shares states, meaning more parents qualify for the credit.

Does Oregon have an official calculator?

Yes. The Oregon Department of Justice provides an official online child support calculator that matches the formula used by courts. It's one of the better state-provided tools and is widely relied upon.

How to Reduce Child Support Costs in Oregon

While child support is determined by Oregon's guidelines, there are legitimate ways to ensure your obligation is calculated fairly.

Increase Parenting Time

In Oregon, more overnights with your children can reduce your support obligation. Document actual time spent and request a formal custody modification if needed.

Ensure Accurate Income Reporting

Both parents' incomes must be reported accurately. Verify that bonuses, overtime, and variable income are averaged correctly over the appropriate period.

Claim All Allowable Deductions

Oregon allows deductions for items like mandatory retirement contributions, union dues, and health insurance premiums. Make sure all qualifying deductions are included.

Request a Modification When Eligible

If your income has decreased by 15-25% or more, you may qualify for a modification. File promptly — changes are typically not retroactive before the filing date.

Account for Other Children

If you have other children you're legally obligated to support, this can be factored into the calculation as a deduction in most states.

Review Healthcare & Childcare Costs

Ensure shared expenses like health insurance and childcare are divided proportionally. If costs have changed, update the court.

Key Facts About Child Support in Oregon

Calculation Model

Income Shares

Guidelines Source

State Statute

Review Frequency

Every 4 Years

Last Updated

January 15, 2024

Common Questions About Oregon Child Support

What is the average child support payment in Oregon?

Average child support in Oregon varies widely based on income, number of children, and custody arrangement. Using the Income Shares model, a typical case with combined income of $6,000/month and one child might result in $800-$1,200/month. Use our calculator above for a personalized estimate.

How do I file for child support in Oregon?

In Oregon, you can file for child support through your local family court or the state's child support enforcement agency. You'll need to provide income documentation, custody information, and details about the children. Many courts offer self-help resources and forms online.

Can I modify child support in Oregon?

Yes, Oregon allows modifications when there is a substantial change in circumstances, such as a significant income change (typically 15-25%), change in custody, or change in the child's needs. File a motion with the court that issued the original order.

Does Oregon enforce child support across state lines?

Yes, under the Uniform Interstate Family Support Act (UIFSA), Oregon cooperates with all other states to enforce child support orders. If the other parent moves to a different state, enforcement can still be pursued through interstate cooperation.

How does shared custody affect child support in Oregon?

When both parents have significant parenting time, Oregon applies a shared custody adjustment. This typically reduces the obligation because both parents directly cover expenses during their time. The threshold and formula vary, so use our calculator to model different custody scenarios.