Georgia’s 2026 Child Support Law Changes: What You Need to Know

Georgia’s child support laws have seen a major update in 2026, impacting how support is calculated and enforced across the state. These changes affect how parenting time is considered, how support amounts are calculated, and how courts define parental responsibilities. Below is a breakdown of what’s changed and how it may affect your family law case in 2026.

Changes to the Child Support Worksheet in 2026

Beginning January 1, 2026, Georgia’s child support worksheet will be used in a new way due to changes in how courts are required to calculate support. While the overall format of the worksheet remains largely the same, courts must now apply a mandatory parenting time adjustment using Schedule C. This means that the amount of time each parent spends with the child will directly affect the final support figure. Previously, parenting time could be considered as a discretionary deviation. Under the 2026 rules, it must be factored in by default whenever parenting time is court-ordered and properly documented.

This change aims to make support calculations more accurate and reflective of shared parenting responsibilities. If you are filing a new support action or requesting a modification in 2026, your case will follow this revised approach to how the worksheet is applied.

Mandatory Parenting Time Adjustment

One of the biggest changes from 2025 to 2026 is that parenting time is no longer optional when calculating child support. In the past, judges could choose whether to factor in the number of overnights or parenting days each parent had. Now, it is required. The more time a parent spends with the child, the more that time will impact the final child support amount. This is especially important in shared custody cases or situations where both parents have close to equal time with the children.

Built-in Low-Income Protections

Parents with limited income are now better protected under the updated law. The new worksheet includes automatic adjustments to prevent unfair financial burdens on parents who earn below a certain income threshold. These built-in protections help ensure that support obligations remain realistic and that parents are still able to meet their child’s needs without risking their own financial stability.

Veterans Disability Benefits Credit

Another important update in Georgia’s 2026 child support laws is the clarification on veterans’ disability benefits. If a child receives veterans’ benefits through a parent, those payments may now be credited toward that parent’s support obligation. This prevents duplication of support and ensures that benefits meant for the child are factored into the overall support equation fairly.

Updated Custodial Parent Definitions

In cases where parenting time is close to equal, courts now have clearer guidance on how to identify which parent is the custodial parent. This matters because it affects who receives and who pays support. The 2026 changes provide new definitions that make it easier to determine how support should be allocated in shared parenting arrangements, especially when both parents are heavily involved in the child’s life.

Considerations for Cost of Living and Income Imputation

Georgia courts will continue to consider cost-of-living changes and will more consistently apply income imputation rules. If a parent is unemployed or underemployed, courts are now more likely to assign a reasonable income based on past employment, education, and job availability. This helps prevent intentional avoidance of child support responsibilities and promotes fairness in support calculations.

What These Changes Mean for You

If you already have a child support order in place, or if you’re about to begin a family law case, it’s important to understand how the 2026 laws will affect your rights and obligations. Here are a few practical takeaways:

• Shared custody will now have a direct effect on support amounts
• The number of parenting overnights is a required factor in all cases
• Low-income parents are automatically protected through the new worksheet
• Disability benefits for the child may reduce the paying parent’s obligation

These updates apply to all new cases filed in 2026 and to any modifications requested after January 1. If your current order does not reflect these new rules, you may want to speak with a child custody lawyer about whether it makes sense to seek a modification.

Get Help Navigating Georgia’s 2026 Child Support Changes

Legal changes like these can be overwhelming, especially if you’re already dealing with the stress of custody and support issues. At South Atlanta Family Law, our team of experienced child custody attorneys is ready to help you understand what the 2026 law means for your case. Whether you’re seeking to modify an existing order or starting the process for the first time, we’ll help you navigate Georgia’s updated child support system and protect your child’s best interests.

We serve families across McDonough, Stockbridge, Atlanta, and throughout Fulton and Henry Counties. Schedule a consultation with a child custody lawyer today by visiting our consultation request form or calling 404-494-0027.

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