Joint/Shared vs Split Custody

Hello, can you tell me why the amount of child support that is paid under a split custody arrangement is 34% less than the amount paid under a joint or shared custody arrangement? The children as a whole would be in each parents house hold for the same amount of time.

Split custody is when one or more children are living primarily with one parent and one or more children are living primarily with the other parent. This is Worksheet C.

Joint custody is when each parent has the children at least 123 overnights per year (the children no split up between residences). This is Worksheet B.

Make sure you are using the correct worksheet for your situation (split custody is not common). For Worksheet C/split custody, the NC Child Support Guidelines state that “the parent with the higher child support obligation is ordered to pay the difference between his or her presumptive child support obligation and the other parent’s presumptive child support obligation.”


Anna Ayscue

Attorney with Rosen Law Firm Cary • Chapel Hill • Durham • Raleigh • Wake Forest

Rosen Online | Unlimited confidential access to a North Carolina attorney for $199/mo - click here

The response posted above is based upon the limited factual information made available and is not intended as a full and complete response to the question. The only reliable manner to obtain complete and adequate legal advice is to consult with an attorney, fully explain your situation, and allow the attorney sufficient opportunity to research the applicable law and facts required to render an accurate opinion. The basic information provided above is intended as a public service only, a full discussion with an attorney should be undertaken before taking any action. The information posted on this forum is available for public viewing and is not intended to create an attorney client relationship with any individual. These answers are provided for informational purposes only, a person should consult with their own individual legal counsel before taking any action that could affect their legal rights or obligations.