RALEIGH, N.C. — The Conference of Chief District Court Judges has adopted revisions to the North Carolina Child Support Guidelines following a statewide review of the guidelines and economic data on the cost of raising children. The revised guidelines take effect January 1, 2027, and apply to child support actions heard on or after that date.
The Child Support Guidelines Committee reviewed the existing guidelines and considered recommendations from judges and practicing attorneys across the state, written public comments, and feedback received during a public hearing held June 4, 2026, in Raleigh. The Conference adopted the recommended revisions following discussion at its fall meeting on October 7, 2026.
The schedule of basic child support obligations has been revised based on updated economic data and recommendations from the Center for Policy Research. The guidelines upper limit for the schedule of basic child support obligations has increased to $50,000 in combined monthly gross income, or $600,000 annually.
The guidelines incorporate an updated self-support reserve based on the 2026 federal poverty level. Absent a deviation, the guidelines require a minimum child support order of $100 for obligors with adjusted gross income below $1,600 per month. The guidelines also clarify how courts may account for irregular, nonrecurring, or one-time income when determining child support obligations.
North Carolina law requires the guidelines to be reviewed at least once every four years to determine whether their application results in appropriate child support orders. The review was conducted pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 50-13.4(c1).
The calculation of child support is governed by North Carolina Child Support Guidelines established by the Conference of Chief District Court Judges. Current NCDHHS worksheet pages still point parents to the Administrative Office of the Courts materials while the 2027 schedule rolls out for actions heard on or after the effective date.
