Child support is a payment made by the non-custodial parent to the custodial parent to cover the costs of their child’s basic needs. It is calculated by a formula set forth under state law called the “income shares model.” This model aims to ensure the child receives the same parental proportion of each parent’s income as if they lived together. Specifically, it considers the income of each parent, the number of children, the cost of health insurance, and childcare expenses.