Child Support Formula

The child support formula was originally issued in 1987. The primary goal of the formula is to assure children receive adequate financial support based upon their needs and the actual resources of each parent.  The formula considers such issues as the income of each parent, family size, child care expenses, other minor children, and pre-existing support orders.

Friend of the Court offices, prosecuting attorneys and circuit court judges are required to use the formula when establishing or changing support.  If a judge sets an amount different from the amount recommended by the formula, the reasons must be stated, either in writing or on the record.

The formula is adjusted annually to reflect changes in the cost of living. A copy of the formula may be available from your local library. If you are interested in obtaining a copy of the formula manual, send a check or money order for five dollars made payable to the State of Michigan along with a request for the Michigan Child Support Formula Manual to:

Department of Management and Budget
Offices Services Division
Publications Section
P.O. Box 30026
Lansing, Michigan 48909

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To receive a copy of the child support calculation program on a 3 1/2 inch disk, you may send a check or money order for $20.00 payable to "A & E Printers & Mailers".  This check, along with a request for the 'Child Support Guideline' should be sent to:

A & E Printers & Mailers
3303 North East Street
Lansing, Michigan 48906
The 'guideline' program is made available as a courtesy to the public.   Technical support for the program is not provided by either A & E Printers or the State Court Administrative Office.

Web Master Note:  You may also obtain this information free of charge online at the following address:   http://www.courts.michigan.gov/scao/resources/publications/manuals

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Additional resources on this topic

"Model Friend of the Court Handbook"-Part 1;Part 2; Part 3;Part 4;Part 5; Part 6;Part 7 "Understanding Child Support Payment Distribution"
This pamphlet was prepared by the Michigan State Court Administrative Office.  The material explains the federal rules for how support is paid through a state agency. 1999
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Last updated 3-15-06

Send your comments, questions and suggestions to Phil Harter at 161 E Michigan Avenue, Battle Creek, Michigan 49014
or e mail to pharter@calhouncountymi.gov