Calculating Child Support in B.C.

How Child Support Is Calculated

Child support in B.C. is calculated using the Federal Child Support Guidelines, which standardize how much support should be paid across Canada.

1. Use the Federal Child Support Table Look‑Up Tool

The federal government provides an online tool where you can calculate the basic support amount based on:

  • The payor’s gross annual income
  • The number of children
  • The province or territory where the paying parent lives

These table amounts are set by law.

2. Parenting Arrangements

Different rules may apply depending on the parenting schedule:

  • Primary residence: The parent with less time pays the table amount
  • Shared parenting (40% or more with each parent): There is no single method to determine the amount of support. Support is determined considering the amount each parent would pay for the child(ren), the increased costs to each parent due to the parenting arrangement, and an assessment of the condition, needs, means of each of the parents and the child(ren) who support is sought for
  • Split parenting: Each parent pays support for the child(ren) primarily living with the other

3. Special or Extraordinary (Section 7) Expenses

Beyond the base amount, parents may share additional expenses proportionate to their incomes, such as:

  • Childcare for work or school
  • Medical/dental costs not covered by insurance
  • Educational expenses (tutoring, private school)
  • Extracurricular activities (sports, music, etc.)

4. Annual Income Updates

Because child support is based on income, both parents are expected to exchange updated financial information every year to ensure payments remain fair and accurate.

Using the Federal Child Support Table as a Child Support Calculator

The federal government’s Child Support Table Look-Up is a helpful tool to estimate basic child support amounts. The federal tables are updated periodically, so it is important to use the version that applies to the time period of your order or agreement.

Source: Government of Canada – 2025 Child Support Table Look-Up [justice.gc.ca]

Disclaimer

The amounts generated by the Federal Child Support Table Look-Up tool should be understood as general estimates only.  Actual child support obligations may differ, as additional factors can influence the final amount.

Please note that BCFMA does not calculate child support. For guidance related to your family situation, you may wish to seek legal advice.

BCFMA does not guarantee the accuracy of the calculations produced by the Federal Child Support Table Look-Up tool and assumes no liability for decisions, outcomes or issues arising from its use.

How Long Child Support Is Payable

In B.C., parents and guardians must continue to provide financial support until a child turns 19, which is the age of majority in British Columbia. Support may continue beyond 19 if the child still depends on parental support. This may occur, for example, if the child is affected by a medical condition, disability, or another circumstance that limits their ability to live independently which may include attendance at a post-secondary institution.