Shared Custody and Child Support in Louisiana
In Louisiana shared custody, the basic obligation is multiplied by 1.5, divided by income, and each parent’s amount is multiplied by the other parent’s share of the time; add-ons are shared, direct payments are deducted and the parent owing more pays the difference.
What counts as shared custody
“Shared custody” means that each parent has physical custody of the child for an approximately equal amount of time. It applies if a joint custody order or joint plan provides for shared custody, or if the court finds by a preponderance of the evidence that shared custody exists (R.S. 9:315.9(A)). Worksheet B is used.
The formula
(1) The basic obligation is multiplied by 1.5 and divided between the parents in proportion to income; (2) each parent’s theoretical obligation is multiplied by the actual percentage of time the child spends with the other parent; (3) each parent’s share of work-related net child care and extraordinary adjustments is added; (4) each parent’s direct payments for child care, insurance and extraordinary expenses are deducted; and (5) the parent owing more pays the other parent the difference.
The cap
The amount owed cannot be higher than the amount that parent would have owed if he or she were not sharing custody, so shared custody never raises support above the standard figure.
An example
The family in the worked example:
| Situation | Monthly support |
|---|---|
| Standard custody, B nondomiciliary | $1,383 |
| Shared custody, 60% with A / 40% with B | $987 |
| Shared custody, 50/50 | $698 |
For the 60/40 case, the 1.5 multiplier gives a shared basic obligation of $2,893.50.
Joint custody that is not shared
A joint custody order that is not shared custody is handled under R.S. 9:315.8: the court considers the time with the nondomiciliary parent and, if that parent has the child for more than 73 days, may order a credit to the support obligation, weighing the time, the added financial burden and the child’s best interests. The party seeking the credit has the burden of proof, and the calculator does not apply it.
Questions to bring to an attorney
Ask whether your arrangement is shared custody or joint custody that is not shared, and how the court will count the time.
Evidence that helps
A calendar of the actual time with each parent, the custody order or implementation plan, and receipts for the expenses each parent pays directly.
Frequently asked questions
What is shared custody in Louisiana child support?
Each parent has physical custody for about an equal amount of time, under a joint custody order or plan or as found by the court.
Why is the Louisiana basic obligation multiplied by 1.5?
Shared custody means two households incur the children's costs, so the schedule amount is increased by one and one-half before it is divided and cross-multiplied.
How is time counted in Louisiana shared custody?
By the actual percentage of time the child spends with each parent, using Worksheet B.
Is there a 73-day credit in Louisiana?
For joint custody that is not shared custody, a parent with more than 73 days may ask the court for a credit, which is discretionary.
Can shared custody increase support in Louisiana?
No. The amount cannot exceed what the parent would owe without shared custody.
Official sources
- R.S. 9:315.19: schedule for support
- R.S. 9:315.2: calculation of basic child support obligation
- R.S. 9:315.9: effect of shared custodial arrangement
- R.S. 9:315.20: worksheets A and B
A local family law attorney can review your situation — many offer a free consultation.
This is general information, not legal advice. It is based on the cited Louisiana statutes, rules and court opinions, and every case turns on its own facts. Confirm how the law applies to your situation with a licensed Louisiana attorney.