Child Support and Family Law in Renton, Washington – A Practical Guide for Parents

If you're a parent in Renton going through a divorce or separation, understanding how child support works under Washington State law is critical. Whether you're the one receiving payments or the one making them, the outcome of your child support case will directly impact your child’s financial future, and your own legal obligations. Washington’s child support statutes were created to promote fairness and consistency while ensuring that children receive the support they need, regardless of changes in family dynamics.

The legal framework offers a structured approach for calculating child support, modifying orders when circumstances change, and enforcing payments when obligations are not met. By understanding the fundamentals of how child support works in Washington, you can reduce stress, avoid legal missteps, and better plan for your child’s future. The following frequently asked questions address common concerns for families in Renton and include public resource links to help you explore each topic in greater detail.

How is child support calculated in Renton?
Child support in Washington is calculated using what’s known as the “Income Shares Model.” This model estimates what both parents would spend on their children if they were still living in the same household. The court adds together both parents’ monthly net income and then uses a standardized economic table to determine the basic support obligation. Each parent’s portion of the total obligation is based on their percentage of the combined income. To review the full support schedule, visit RCW 26.19.020.

Can a child support order be modified in Washington, and if so, how?
Yes, modifications are allowed when a substantial change in circumstances occurs. This could include job loss, a significant change in income, new medical expenses, or shifts in the parenting schedule. To request a modification, a parent must file a formal motion with the court and provide supporting documentation. Depending on the situation, the court may schedule a hearing or direct the parties to mediation.

What types of income are considered when calculating child support?
When determining child support, Washington courts include all gross income sources: wages, self-employment income, overtime, bonuses, unemployment benefits, disability pay, and more. From this, specific deductions are allowed—such as federal income tax, Social Security, and mandatory retirement contributions. These deductions are used to calculate each parent’s net income. The applicable statute is RCW 26.19.071.

How long are parents required to pay child support in Washington?
Typically, child support continues until the child turns 18 or graduates from high school, whichever comes later. In some cases, support may continue beyond this point, such as when a child has a disability or is enrolled in post-secondary education with a court order extending the obligation. For more, see WashingtonLawHelp.org's Child Support section.

What happens if child support isn’t paid?
Failing to pay child support can lead to serious enforcement actions. The Division of Child Support (DCS) may garnish wages, intercept tax refunds, suspend driver's or professional licenses, or even seek a court order for contempt. Delinquent support can accrue interest, and ongoing non-compliance may result in additional legal consequences.

Child support is more than just a monthly obligation; it’s a legal commitment to your child’s well-being. If you're unsure how the law applies to your situation or are involved in a dispute, speaking with an experienced family law attorney in Renton can help you protect your rights and your child’s future.

Understanding Chapter 26.19 RCW – Washington State’s Child Support Framework
Chapter 26.19 of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) lays out the standardized process courts follow to determine child support across the state. These laws are designed to ensure that support calculations are fair, transparent, and based on a consistent formula, no matter where a family lives.

For parents in Renton and throughout King County, all child support matters are handled through the King County Superior Court, which relies on these statutes to calculate obligations, review income, and establish equitable support outcomes.

Below is a breakdown of key sections in Chapter 26.19 RCW, with quotes from the statute and direct links to help you better understand each provision:

RCW 26.19.020 – Basic Child Support Obligation
This statute explains how courts determine the starting point for child support payments. The process begins by combining the net monthly incomes of both parents and referencing Washington’s economic table to calculate a recommended support amount. The table is based on what parents would typically spend on their children if they remained in one household. Judges use this figure as a baseline and may later adjust it based on special considerations.

RCW 26.19.071 – Determining Income
Here, the law defines what qualifies as income and what deductions may be taken into account. It includes all forms of gross income, like wages, commissions, bonuses, retirement income, and self-employment earnings. Mandatory deductions, such as federal taxes and retirement contributions, are then subtracted to calculate net income.
“All income and resources of each parent's household shall be disclosed and considered by the court when the court determines the child support obligation of each parent.”

RCW 26.19.080 – Proportional Sharing of Support Obligation
Support payments are divided proportionally according to each parent’s share of the combined income. For example, if one parent earns 65% of the total household income, they will be responsible for 65% of the child support obligation.
“The basic child support obligation derived from the economic table shall be allocated between the parents based on each parent's share of the combined monthly net income.”

RCW 26.19.075 – Standards for Deviation
This provision allows courts to adjust the standard child support amount when exceptional circumstances exist. These might include significant financial responsibilities for other children, medical expenses, or income from a new spouse or domestic partner.
“…The court may deviate from the standard calculation after consideration of the following: (i) Income of a new spouse or new domestic partner…”
For a full list of possible deviations, visit the statute above.

RCW 26.19.050 – Worksheets and Instructions
This section requires the use of standardized worksheets for child support calculations. These court-approved forms help ensure consistency in how support amounts are determined statewide.
“The administrative office of the courts shall develop and adopt worksheets and instructions to assist the parties and courts in establishing the appropriate child support level…”

To review the complete set of laws, you can visit the full Chapter 26.19 RCW – Washington State Child Support Schedule.

1. How is child support calculated in Washington State?
Child support is calculated using the combined net incomes of both parents and referencing Washington’s support schedule. Each parent’s share of the obligation is proportional to their income. Adjustments may be made for factors like health insurance costs, daycare, and extraordinary needs.
Use the official Washington State Child Support Calculator.

2. Can I request a modification to an existing support order?
Yes, modifications are allowed when a parent experiences a substantial change in circumstances, such as a job loss, increased expenses, or a shift in parenting time. The process requires filing a formal motion with the court.
Find the modification forms and instructions here.

3. What happens if a parent stops paying child support?
If a Renton parent falls behind on child support, the Division of Child Support (DCS) can take enforcement actions, including wage garnishment, tax refund interception, and license suspension. Arrears may accrue interest, and repeated non-payment can lead to court sanctions.
Visit Washington DCS – Child Support Enforcement.

Speak With a Renton Child Support Lawyer Today
Whether you're setting up a support order, seeking enforcement, or pursuing a modification, The Law Office of Jason S. Newcombe is here to help. With more than 50 years of combined legal experience, our team has guided hundreds of families through Washington’s child support system. We offer free consultations to discuss your case, answer your questions, and help you move forward with confidence.

Contact us today to schedule your free consultation and get the legal support you need.