Mississippi Child Support Percentage Guidelines Explained

In Mississippi, child support is calculated using a percentage-of-income model. The guideline amount is based on the non-custodial parent’s adjusted gross income and the number of children being supported.

Guideline Percentages

Mississippi courts generally apply the following percentages:

• 1 child: 14% of adjusted gross income

• 2 children: 20%

• 3 children: 22%

• 4 children: 24%

• 5 or more children: 26%

These percentages apply only after allowable deductions are made.

What Counts as Adjusted Gross Income

The court may deduct certain expenses before applying the percentage, including:

• Federal, state, and local taxes

• Mandatory retirement contributions

• Social Security and Medicare

• Health insurance premiums for the child

After these deductions, the remaining income is used to calculate support.

When Courts Can Deviate From the Guidelines

Judges are allowed to adjust the amount if the guideline figure would be unjust or inappropriate. Common reasons include:

• Shared or extended custody arrangements

• Extraordinary medical or educational expenses

• A parent’s disability or serious health condition

• Other children the paying parent is legally supporting

Any deviation must be explained and justified in the court order.

Important to Know

The guideline amount is the starting point, not a guarantee. Only a judge can approve the final child support amount, and informal agreements between parents do not override court orders.