How Is Child Support Calculated in Ontario?
By:
Amanda Willing
On
16/03/2026Reading time:
3 min
Summary:
When parents separate or divorce, one of the first financial questions that arises is how child support will be calculated. In Ontario, child support is determined using the Federal Child Support Guidelines, which create a consistent and fair approach.
Here’s a simple overview of how it works.
The Paying Parent’s Income
Child support calculations start with the paying parent’s gross annual income, usually taken from their most recent tax return.
However, courts may take a closer look if a parent:
• Is self-employed
• Earns commission or bonuses
• Has fluctuating income
• Is suspected of underreporting earnings
In some cases, the court may impute income, meaning it assigns a reasonable income level based on the parent’s earning
capacity.
The Child Support Table Amount
Once income is determined, the Ontario Child Support Tables establish the base monthly support payment.
The amount depends on:
• The paying partner's income
• The number of children requiring support
This base amount is intended to help cover everyday expenses such as:
• Housing
• Food
• Clothing
• Transportation
• Basic school needs
Special or Extraordinary Expenses
Some child-related costs fall outside the basic table amount. These are known as Section 7 expenses.
Examples include:
• Childcare required for work or school
• Medical or dental expenses not covered by insurance
• Extracurricular activities (sports, music, etc.)
• Private school tuition
• Post-secondary education costs
These expenses are typically shared between parents based on their respective incomes.
Shared Parenting Arrangements
If a child spends 40% or more of their time with each parent, the situation may qualify as shared parenting.
In these cases, courts often use a set-off calculation, where the support amount each parent would owe is compared, and the
higher-income parent pays the difference. Other factors—such as the cost of maintaining two homes for the child—may also
be considered.
Key Takeaways
✔ Child support is calculated using the Federal Child Support Guidelines
✔ Payments are based mainly on income and number of children
✔ The table amount covers basic living expenses
✔ Section 7 expenses may be shared proportionally
✔ Shared parenting arrangements can adjust the final support amount
Questions About Child Support?
Child support calculations can become more complex when income fluctuates, parenting time is shared, or additional expenses are involved.
If you’re navigating separation or divorce, understanding your rights and responsibilities is essential.
Contact our family law team today to schedule a consultation.