Child Support
Arizona calculates child support under the Arizona Child Support Guidelines. The calculation considers both parents’ incomes, the number of children, each parent’s parenting time, and costs such as the children’s health insurance and child care. The court can depart from the guidelines amount only in limited circumstances.
Spousal Maintenance
Spousal maintenance, sometimes called alimony, is support paid to a spouse or former spouse. It is not automatic. The court first decides whether a spouse qualifies, for example because they lack enough property or earning ability to meet their reasonable needs. If so, the court sets the amount and duration using the Arizona Spousal Maintenance Guidelines and factors such as the length of the marriage and each spouse’s finances.
Changing an Existing Order
Child support and most spousal maintenance orders can be modified after a substantial and continuing change in circumstances, such as a significant change in income. A modification generally applies only to payments due after the other party is notified of the request, so waiting can be costly. Keep paying the current amount until the court changes the order.
Documents for Your Consultation
What to Bring
- Recent pay stubs and tax returns
- Existing support orders or written agreements
- Health insurance and child care costs
- Hearing notices and court papers
- A summary of any changes in your circumstances
Common Questions
Can an online calculator tell me what I will owe?
The Arizona Judicial Branch offers an official child support calculator. It gives a useful estimate, but the result depends on accurate income and parenting-time figures, and the court makes the final decision.
When does child support end?
Generally at 18. If the child is still in high school, support continues until graduation or age 19, whichever comes first. It can continue longer for a child with a severe disability.
Can I stop paying if I lose my job?
No. Ask the court to modify the order as soon as possible. The obligation continues at the current amount until a new order is entered.