South Carolina does not set a flat dollar amount for one child

South Carolina uses a income shares model, which means the amount owed depends on how much both parents earn, not on a fixed table. The state publishes guidelines that show what percentage of combined parental income goes to child support, but the actual dollar figure changes from case to case.

For one child, the guideline percentage is 17% of combined parental income. If both parents together earn $3,000 per month, the child support obligation would be around $510 per month. If they earn $5,000 per month combined, it would be around $850 per month. The court divides this obligation between the parents based on each person's share of the total income.

A judge can order a different amount if the guideline figure would be unjust or inappropriate given the specific situation — for example, if one parent has significant debt, unusual medical expenses, or custody of other children. The judge must document in writing why they departed from the guideline.

Key Takeaways

  • South Carolina child support for one child is 17% of the combined income of both parents, not a set dollar amount.
  • Each parent pays their share of that 17% based on what portion of the total income they earn.
  • The court can order more or less than the guideline amount if circumstances make the guideline unfair.
  • Income includes wages, self-employment earnings, rental income, and some benefits, but the definition varies by situation.
  • Child support orders are reviewed and can be changed if either parent's income changes by 10% or more.

How the court splits the obligation between two parents

The 17% is calculated on combined income, then divided between the parents. The parent with primary custody (called the custodial parent) usually receives the payment. The other parent (called the obligor) pays their percentage of the 17% to the custodial parent.

Example: Parent A earns $2,000 per month. Parent B earns $3,000 per month. Combined income is $5,000. The guideline amount is $850 per month (17% of $5,000). Parent A's share of income is 40%, so Parent A owes 40% of $850 = $340. Parent B's share is 60%, so Parent B owes 60% of $850 = $510. If Parent B has custody, Parent A pays $340 to Parent B each month.

If both parents share custody equally (called joint custody), the calculation is more complex because the court considers how much time the child spends with each parent and which parent pays for which expenses. The obligor still pays the other parent, but the amount may be reduced.

What counts as income for child support purposes

South Carolina includes most forms of income in the calculation. Gross income — meaning before taxes — is the starting point. This includes:

  • Wages and salary from employment
  • Self-employment income and business profits
  • Rental income from property
  • Interest and dividend income
  • Unemployment benefits
  • Workers' compensation
  • Social Security benefits (with some exceptions for disabled or retired parents)
  • Disability benefits
  • Bonuses and commissions

The court does not count Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) as income. Child support received for other children is also excluded.

If a parent is intentionally unemployed or underemployed — meaning they could earn more but choose not to — the court can impute income, or assign an income level based on their work history and job market conditions. This prevents a parent from avoiding child support by quitting their job.

When and how the amount can change

A child support order is not permanent. Either parent can request a modification (a change to the order) if circumstances shift. South Carolina law allows a modification if there has been a substantial and material change in circumstances. In practice, this usually means a change in income of 10% or more.

Common reasons for modification include a job loss, a significant raise, a change in custody arrangement, or the birth of another child. The parent requesting the change must file a motion with the court and provide documentation of the new income — usually recent pay stubs, tax returns, or a letter from an employer.

The process takes several weeks to several months, depending on whether the other parent agrees to the change. If both parents agree, the court can approve it more quickly. If they disagree, a judge will hold a hearing and decide.

How South Carolina enforces child support orders

If a parent falls behind on payments, South Carolina's Department of Social Services can take enforcement action. The state can intercept tax refunds, garnish wages directly from the employer, suspend a driver's license, or place a lien on property.

Payments are usually made through the state's payment processing system, not directly to the other parent. This creates a record of all payments and makes enforcement easier. If a parent pays cash or makes direct transfers, there is no proof of payment, which can cause problems later.

A parent who is significantly behind can be held in contempt of court, which can result in jail time. However, jail is typically used only after other enforcement methods have been tried and the parent has had a chance to explain why they cannot pay.

Expenses that child support does and does not cover

Child support in South Carolina covers the child's basic living expenses: food, housing, utilities, and clothing. It does not automatically cover health insurance, childcare, or medical expenses beyond routine care.

However, the court often orders the parent with better health insurance to cover the child on their plan. Childcare expenses related to work or school may be added to the child support obligation. Significant medical, dental, or educational expenses can be split between the parents or added to the base amount, depending on the judge's decision.

The child support order should specify who pays for these extras. If it does not, disputes often arise. Parents can request a modification to clarify these costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does child support end when the child turns 18?

Child support in South Carolina ends when the child turns 18, unless the child is still in high school. If the child is enrolled in high school at age 18, support continues until the child graduates or turns 19, whichever comes first. Support also continues past 18 if the child is disabled and unable to support themselves.

What if the paying parent loses their job?

A parent who loses their job should file a motion to modify the child support order as soon as possible. The court can lower or temporarily suspend the obligation while the parent looks for work. However, the parent must show they are making a genuine effort to find employment. Simply being unemployed does not automatically stop the obligation.

Can child support be ordered if there is no custody order?

Yes. Child support and custody are separate matters. A court can order child support even if there is no formal custody arrangement. However, the custody situation affects how much is owed — for example, if both parents share custody equally, the amount is calculated differently than if one parent has full custody.

What if the parents were never married?

Child support works the same way whether the parents were married or not. The court uses the same 17% guideline for one child and the same income calculation. If paternity has not been established, that must happen first, usually through a DNA test or a signed acknowledgment of paternity.

Can I get child support modified if my ex remarried or has a new partner?

The income of a new spouse or partner does not count toward child support. Only the income of the two biological or adoptive parents is considered. However, if your ex's new spouse's income allows your ex to reduce their own work hours, the court might consider that a change in circumstances worth reviewing.