Colorado has child support statutes to ensure every child has an adequate standard for financial and emotional support from both parents, and the guidelines are intended to for the children to receive the same amount of financial support as they would if they still lived with both parents. This support generally comes in the form of money paid by the parent without custody to the child’s other parent or caregiver. Colorado uses a strict, and also fairly complicated, guideline when deciding the appropriate amount of child support. Parents are allowed to create their own child support agreements, but if these agreements stray too far from the state guidelines they won’t be approved by the court. This is a quick summary of child support guidelines in Colorado.
Child Support Statutes in Colorado
The following table outlines Colorado's Child Support statutes.
| Code Section |
| |
| Who Is Responsible? | Both parents. | |
| How Is Support Calculated? | Calculation of the gross income of each parent, gross income being income from any source other than child support payments, public assistance, a second job, or a retirement plan. Child support is a percentage (roughly 20% for 1 child, and an additional 10% for each additional child) of the combined gross income of the parents, which is then split between both parents, depending on other factors. | |
| Factors | In determining the amount of support the court shall consider all relevant factors, including:
| |
| What Is Included in a Support Order? | Child care expenses, health insurance coverage, medical expenses, educational expenses, and travel expenses. | |
| How Long Must a Parent Pay Child Support? | Until child turns 19 or 21 if the child still attends high school. (Child support continues indefinitely if the child cannot support themselves due to a physical or mental disability.) | |
| Local Child Support Offices | ||
| Colorado Child Support Formula |
How to File For Child Support in Colorado
If you are seeking child support in Colorado, the Colorado Division of Child Support Services can be your resource for:
You can also apply for child support services online and find additional forms on the DHS website.
Colorado Child Support Guidelines: Related Resources
Calculating amounts and navigating Colorado's child support guidelines can be confusing. If you would like legal assistance with a child support matter, you can contact a Colorado family law attorney. You can also visit FindLaw’s sections on Child Custody, Child Support Modifications, and Child Support Enforcement for more articles and information on this topic.
