Tennessee sets child support with an 'Income Shares' formula that uses both parents' incomes, the parenting schedule, and costs like health insurance and childcare. Support can be established, modified when circumstances change significantly, and enforced if it goes unpaid. Small differences in the inputs can meaningfully change the amount.
How child support is calculated
Tennessee uses an 'Income Shares' model that considers both parents' incomes, the parenting schedule, and certain expenses like health insurance and childcare. Small differences in the inputs can meaningfully change the result, so getting them right matters.
Modifying support
Support can be modified when circumstances change significantly — a change in income, parenting time, or a child's needs. We help you request or contest a modification.
Common questions
Can child support be changed later?
Yes. When there's a significant change in circumstances, either parent can ask the court to modify support.
What if the other parent won't pay?
Tennessee has enforcement tools for unpaid support. We can help you pursue enforcement.
Other practice areas
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This page is general information, not legal advice, and does not create an attorney–client relationship.