Child Support & Parenting Plans in New Hampshire

Establishing fair child support and parenting agreements is critical for both parents and children. Naro Law helps clients pursue support arrangements that reflect the needs of the child while protecting parental rights and financial stability. Our firm also assists with modifications and enforcement actions when circumstances change.

Whether you are establishing a new parenting plan, seeking to modify child support, or enforcing an existing order, we provide experienced legal guidance throughout New Hampshire.

New Hampshire Child Support Guidelines

New Hampshire uses the income shares model under RSA 458-C, which calculates support based on both parents’ incomes combined, then divides responsibility proportionally. There is a rebuttable presumption that the amount calculated under the guidelines is the correct child support amount. RSA Chapter 458-C.

The guidelines establish a uniform system for determining child support awards. A court may deviate from the guidelines only when it finds by a preponderance of the evidence that application of the guidelines would be “unjust or inappropriate” based upon special circumstances set forth in the statute.

How Child Support Is Calculated

  • Both parents' gross monthly incomes are combined
  • Each parent's share is proportional to their income
  • Childcare costs, health insurance, and medical expenses are factored in
  • The self-support reserve protects lower-income parents

Presumption of Guideline Support

  • Guideline amount is presumed correct
  • Rebuttal requires showing application would be unjust
  • Special circumstances must be proven by preponderance of evidence
  • Written findings required for any deviation

Duration of Child Support

  • Generally continues until child turns 18
  • May extend to age 21 if child is still in high school
  • Support may continue for adult children with disabilities
  • Can be modified upon showing of substantial change

Parenting Plans in New Hampshire

All custody arrangements in New Hampshire require a formal parenting plan. Parenting plans are not optional but mandatory legal documents that outline how parents will share responsibilities and time with their children. RSA 461-A:4.

The state supports frequent contact with both parents, emphasizing that children benefit most from maintaining meaningful relationships with each parent. Courts prioritize children’s emotional and physical well-being over parental preferences.

What a Parenting Plan Covers

  • Physical living arrangements and schedule
  • Holiday and vacation schedules
  • Decision-making responsibilities (legal custody)
  • Communication protocols between parents
  • Financial support and expense sharing

Best Interests Standard

  • Child's relationship with each parent
  • Ability to provide nurture, love, and guidance
  • Child's adjustment to school and community
  • Willingness to foster positive relationship with other parent
  • Any history of domestic violence or abuse

RSA 461-A:6

Equal Parenting Presumption

  • Rebuttable presumption of approximately equal parenting time
  • Encourages 50-50 or near 50-50 parenting schedules
  • Presumption can be overcome if not in child's best interest
  • Courts evaluate evidence on a case-by-case basis

RSA 461-A:2

Serving Child Support & Parenting Plans Throughout New Hampshire

Hillsborough County

Including Nashua, Manchester, Merrimack, Hudson, Milford, Amherst, and surrounding communities.

Rockingham County

Including Salem, Derry, Londonderry, Portsmouth, Exeter, and surrounding areas.

Merrimack County

Including Concord, Bow, Pembroke, Hooksett, and nearby communities.

Belknap County

Including Tilton, Belmont, Gilford, North Hampton and surrounding communities.

Carroll County

Including Conway, Wolfeboro, Moultonborough and surrounding communities.

Strafford County

Including Dover, Rochester, Somersworth, and surrounding communities.

Cheshire County

Including Keene and surrounding southwestern New Hampshire communities.

Schedule a Free Consult with our team

Child custody and visitation rights are often among the most contentious issues decided in a divorce, and can involve additional, sometimes acrimonious, considerations when the parents have never been married. On the other hand, Concord’s laws provide a detailed roadmap for how parents can advocate for their parental rights and responsibilities.

An experienced Concord, NH child custody lawyer can often act as a guide along the way, assisting concerned parents through the stages of their child custody journey. Contact Naro Law PLLC today to learn more in a personalized consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

New Hampshire uses the income shares model under RSA 458-C. Both parents’ gross incomes are combined, and each parent’s share is proportional to their income. The guidelines also factor in childcare costs, health insurance, and medical expenses.

Yes. Child support may be modified when there has been a substantial change in circumstances, including significant changes in income, parenting schedules, or other relevant factors. RSA 458-C:7

The 2025 reforms (HB 1564) created new definitions for parenting time percentages and established a new framework for support. If parents have substantially similar incomes and approximately equal parenting time, there is a rebuttable presumption of $0 child support. Similar incomes with shared time creates a presumption that deviation is appropriate.

While you can represent yourself, child support and parenting plan matters involve complex legal standards and statutory requirements. An experienced attorney can help protect your rights, ensure proper documentation, and advocate for arrangements that serve your family’s best interests.