Child Support Guidelines in Hawaii
The model, the factors, and the official table for Hawaii.
Reference only — no accounts, no personal data collected.Hawaii sets child support through statewide guidelines. This page explains the calculation model Hawaii uses, the factors that go into it, and where to find the official support schedule.
The Model Used in Hawaii
Hawaii uses the Melson Formula. After reserving a self-support amount for each parent and a standard-of-living allowance for the children, the remaining income is shared proportionally between the parents and the children.
Factors Hawaii Considers
- Each parent's gross income
- A self-support reserve (primary support allowance) for each parent
- A children's standard-of-living allowance
- Remaining net income shared proportionally between parents and children
- Childcare, health insurance, and uninsured medical costs
Base Obligation Table
The dollar amounts come from the Hawaii Child Support Schedule, published by the Hawaii Child Support Enforcement Agency. The schedule turns the inputs above into a monthly obligation. See the official schedule on the agency site: https://childsupport.hawaii.gov/.
Hawaii applies the Melson Formula, including a standard-of-living allowance for the children.
Frequently Asked Questions
What model does Hawaii use for child support?
Hawaii uses the Melson model. See "The Model Used in Hawaii" above for how it works.
Does parenting time affect support in Hawaii?
Yes. Hawaii adjusts the obligation for the number of overnights the non-custodial parent has, because shared parenting lowers the custodial parent's direct costs.
Where do I find the official Hawaii support table?
The official schedule is published by the Hawaii Child Support Enforcement Agency. A link is in the "Base Obligation Table" section above.
Is this the final amount I will pay or receive?
Not necessarily. Courts can deviate for extraordinary medical needs, private school, or travel costs. Use the official schedule or a family-law attorney for a case-specific number.