Based on F.S. 61.30 (2025 Guidelines)
Florida uses the Income Shares Model, which estimates how much parents would spend on their children if they were still living together. The calculation involves three main steps:
In Florida, if a parenting plan dictates that the child spends at least 20% of overnights (73 nights per year) with each parent, the court uses a different calculation known as the "Gross Up Method".
Why it matters: This method increases the basic support obligation by 50% to account for the duplicated costs of maintaining two separate households (like two bedrooms, double toiletries, etc.). It typically reduces the amount the higher earner pays, acknowledging their direct financial contribution during their visitation time.
Gross income is broad in Florida. It includes salary, wages, bonuses, commissions, allowances, overtime, tips, business income, disability benefits, workers' comp, reemployment assistance, pension/retirement payments, and social security benefits.
If a parent exercises fewer than 73 overnights (20%), the standard calculation applies. Once you hit 73 nights, the "Gross Up" formula kicks in, which generally lowers the monthly payment for the payer to reflect the costs they incur while the child is in their home.