Introduction
Minnesota child support laws saw several key updates in 2025 that parents — whether paying or receiving support — need to understand. These changes aim to better reflect the modern cost of raising a child, update calculation formulas, and promote more fairness in shared parenting situations.
Whether you’re in the middle of a divorce or already have a child support order in place, this guide breaks down the 2025 changes to Minnesota child support law and how they could affect your case.
Overview of Minnesota’s Child Support System
Minnesota calculates child support using an income shares model, which means both parents’ incomes are used to determine their combined child support obligation. This obligation is then divided between the parents based on:
- Income
- Parenting time
- Other expenses, like medical insurance or child care
The goal is to ensure children enjoy the same standard of living they would have had if the parents lived together.
Child support is governed by Minnesota Statutes Chapter 518A, and orders can be modified if there are substantial changes in income, custody, or expenses.
What’s New in 2025?
Here are the most important changes to Minnesota child support laws that took effect in 2025:
1. Updated Parenting Expense Adjustment (PEA)
The Parenting Expense Adjustment is the formula used to reduce a parent’s support obligation based on the amount of time they spend with the child.
What changed: The 2025 updates increase the adjustment for parents with close to equal parenting time. This makes it more financially fair for parents who are actively co-parenting and sharing time more evenly.
- Under the old rules, a parent needed at least 45.1% parenting time to get the most substantial reduction.
- In 2025, the new threshold is now 40%, and the credit applied is slightly higher.
This adjustment reflects modern co-parenting arrangements and recognizes the financial investment of both parents.
2. Income Self-Sufficiency Threshold Increased
Minnesota has increased the self-support reserve to account for the rising cost of living.
- In 2024, the reserve was based on 120% of the federal poverty guideline for one person.
- As of 2025, it has increased to 130%, providing more protection for low-income obligors to ensure they can still meet basic needs while paying child support.
This is especially important for parents with minimum wage jobs or irregular income.
3. Streamlined Modification Standards
It’s now easier to request a modification of child support orders if there’s been a material change in circumstances.
What’s different:
- Courts are encouraged to approve modifications when parenting time shifts significantly or income changes by more than 10%.
- There is a simplified form and filing process for pro se litigants (those without an attorney).
You can learn more about filing for modification through the Minnesota Department of Human Services.
4. Digital Child Support Calculator Updates
The official Minnesota Child Support Calculator has been updated to reflect all 2025 changes.
- It now provides more accurate PEA reductions
- Includes prompts to input detailed health care and daycare costs
- Offers a downloadable worksheet for filing with your court documents
Parents are encouraged to use the updated calculator to get a realistic estimate before filing.
How Child Support Is Still Calculated
Despite the updates, the foundation of Minnesota child support calculations remains the same. The court will consider:
- Gross monthly income of both parents
- Parenting time percentages
- Cost of health insurance and daycare
- Any spousal maintenance being paid or received
The 2025 updates mostly refine these inputs, rather than completely change the method.
What If You Already Have a Child Support Order?
If you already have an order in place, you don’t need to take action unless:
- Your income has changed
- Your parenting time has changed
- You believe the new rules would significantly reduce or increase your obligation
In that case, you can file for a modification of your current order. It’s recommended to consult a family law attorney if you’re unsure whether you qualify.
How Courts View Parenting Time in 2025
The 2025 law continues to place a strong emphasis on parenting time. Judges are required to consider:
- Who provides day-to-day care
- Who ensures school attendance and health appointments
- Whether parents are following the agreed schedule
Accurate parenting time tracking can significantly affect your child support amount. You can use parenting time trackers or apps to help you keep records.
Can You Waive Child Support in Minnesota?
Generally, no. Minnesota courts view child support as a right of the child, not the parent. Even if both parents agree to waive child support, a judge may reject the agreement if it is not in the child’s best interest.
However, if both parents have similar incomes and share parenting time equally, a judge may approve a $0 obligation after reviewing financial data.
Enforcement Remains a Priority
Even with updates aimed at fairness, the enforcement mechanisms remain strict for those who fall behind. These include:
- Wage garnishment
- Tax refund intercepts
- Driver’s license suspension
- Passport denial
- Contempt of court charges
If you’re struggling to pay child support, it’s better to seek a modification than to risk enforcement actions.
How Martine Law Can Help
At Martine Law, we help clients:
- Understand their support obligations
- Modify outdated support orders
- Calculate realistic support using updated tools
- Navigate disputes about parenting time and expenses
- Represent their interests in court
If you’re confused about the 2025 updates or worried about your current child support situation, we’re here to help.
Contact our Minneapolis family law team to schedule a free consultation today.
Final Thoughts
Minnesota’s 2025 child support law updates are designed to reflect a more modern approach to shared parenting, income equity, and realistic cost-of-living considerations. Understanding these changes can help you plan ahead, protect your rights, and ensure your child’s needs are being met fairly.
Whether you’re starting a custody case, revisiting a past support order, or need guidance through a complex legal situation, working with an experienced attorney ensures you stay informed and protected.