Child support in Washington
Child support in Washington is calculated using a statewide formula called the Child Support Schedule. It starts from both parents' incomes and the number and ages of the children, then allocates the total between the parents.
What we do
We help clients establish, modify, and enforce child support orders in accordance with Washington's Child Support Schedule. That includes calculating support based on incomes, deductions, and residential time; addressing deviations; and making sure children receive appropriate financial support while protecting our client's rights.
How the number is reached
Step one
Income
Both parents' gross monthly income, less specific allowed deductions. Income can be imputed to a parent who is voluntarily unemployed or underemployed.
Step two
The schedule
The economic table sets a basic support obligation, which is then divided between the parents in proportion to their incomes.
Step three
Additions and deviations
Health insurance, daycare, and other expenses are added. A court may deviate from the standard figure, but it has to give reasons.
Modifying and enforcing
Support orders are not permanent. They can generally be reviewed when circumstances change substantially, and many orders can be revisited periodically regardless. If the other parent has stopped paying, enforcement tools exist — including wage withholding and contempt proceedings. Unpaid support does not simply disappear over time.
What it costs
Your first consultation is free and runs about 30 minutes, including a case evaluation. A straightforward calculation and a contested case involving self‑employment income or imputation are very different pieces of work. Every case is unique, and the reliable way to get a number for yours is to ask at a free consultation, where you can get a quote specific to your situation.
Common questions
Does 50/50 time mean no support?
Not necessarily. Residential time matters, but so does the income difference between the parents. Equal time does not automatically zero out support.
Can we just agree on an amount?
You can agree, but the court still reviews it against the schedule and has to approve any departure from the standard calculation.
When does support end?
Usually at 18 or graduation from high school, whichever is later. Support for post‑secondary education can be requested in some circumstances.
Can I stop paying if I'm denied time?
No. Support and residential time are separate obligations. Withholding payment creates a second problem rather than solving the first.
Talk it through first
A free 30‑minute consultation costs you nothing and is not a commitment. Bring recent pay information and any existing order if you have one.
This page is general information about Washington law, not legal advice, and reading it does not create an attorney‑client relationship. Outcomes depend on the specific facts of each case. Pinnacle Family Law, PLLC · 2479 Griffin Ave., Suite 201, Enumclaw, WA 98022.