Update: Washington Child Support Law Changes 2026 – What Parents Should Know
If you’re trying to understand how child support will be calculated going forward, Washington child support law changes in 2026 may significantly affect current and future support orders. Engrossed House Bill 1014 introduces key updates to how child support is calculated, including changes to income ranges, deductions, and minimum income thresholds.
As a Seattle family law attorney, I recommend parents review these changes now—especially if you plan to initiate or modify a support order after the new rules go into effect on January 1, 2026.
Key Washington Child Support Law Changes Coming in 2026
1. Expanded Economic Table Range
One of the most notable Washington child support law changes in 2026 is the expansion of the economic table. The table now covers combined monthly net incomes up to $50,000 (previously capped at $12,000). For incomes above $12,000, support amounts are calculated using a formula rather than historical spending data.
For incomes under $12,000, the amounts remain the same as under the current table. The updated schedule also eliminates amounts for combined incomes below $2,200/month.
See the full table from the Washington State Child Support Schedule Pamphlet (PDF).
2. New Self-Support Reserve Standard
Another major change in the 2026 law is a higher self-support reserve—the amount a parent paying support must be left with after meeting their obligation. Beginning in 2026, this figure increases from 125% to 180% of the federal poverty guideline for a one-person household (with some exceptions).
3. Temporary Reduction for Behavioral Health Treatment
Parents in court-ordered behavioral health treatment may qualify for a reduced support amount—$50 per child, per month—during treatment, offering some relief during challenging times.
4. New State-Mandated Deductions Allowed
Effective 2026, parents may deduct the following from their gross income when calculating support:
- Washington Paid Family and Medical Leave contributions
- Washington Cares long-term care trust contributions
- Other state-mandated insurance p
These new deductions reflect growing recognition of required costs in modern household budgeting.
5. Revised Worksheets and Instructions
The Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC) will release new worksheets and updated instructions before the changes take effect. These documents will reflect rounding adjustments, new income tiers, and the revised deductions.
Planning Ahead for 2026
Although most Washington child support law changes in 2026 take effect on January 1, parents and practitioners should begin planning now. Courts will spend 2025 preparing updated materials and training personnel.
If you’re in the process of modifying a support order or expect to do so soon, it’s wise to understand how these changes could affect your outcome.
To learn more about how support is currently calculated, visit our detailed guide on Child Support in Washington State.
Need Help Navigating the 2026 Child Support Law Changes?
At Weintraub Law Office, we guide parents through every step of Washington’s child support process. Whether you’re modifying an existing order or starting from scratch, we can help you understand your rights under the new law.
Call Weintraub Law Office at +1 425 374 4045 or schedule an appointment with a trusted Seattle family law attorney.