Detailed Calculation Methodology
Technical explanation of the formulas and constants behind the detailed child support calculator
The detailed child support calculator is based on established Israeli case law, primarily the Supreme Court ruling in HCJ 919/15. Below is a detailed explanation of each calculation step.
Full HCJ 919/15 ruling (Nevo Legal Database)1Step 1: Effective Income
Effective income is calculated as follows: sum all income sources (salary + business + investments + rental + benefits). If earning capacity is enabled, use the maximum of actual income and imputed income. Deduct prior child support obligations, then apply the other children discount (10% per child, up to 40%).
2Step 2: Stay-Dependent Needs
Base needs are set by age: ₪1,500 (0-5), ₪1,750 (6-11), ₪2,100 (12-17). Special needs children receive a 25% supplement. For ages 0-5 — absolute obligation (no custody offset). For ages 6+ — proportional obligation based on (income ratio − custody ratio).
3Step 3: Non-Stay-Dependent Expenses
Expenses such as private education, healthcare, childcare, and extracurricular activities are split between parents by income ratio only, regardless of custody arrangement.
4Step 4: Housing & Transportation
Children's share of housing is calculated as: 33% for 1 child, 40% for 2 children, 55% for 3+. Housing transfer = (child share from A + child share from B) × income ratio − child share from A. Transportation is split by income ratio.
5Step 5: Range & Standard of Living
The amount is multiplied by the standard of living multiplier (0.85 low / 1.0 average / 1.15 above average / 1.30 high). Then the self-support mechanism is applied (₪5,500 minimum). Final range: ±15% court discretion.
Constants
Base needs by age
| Base needs by age | ₪ |
|---|---|
| 0-5 years | ₪1,500 |
| 6-11 years | ₪1,750 |
| 12-17 years | ₪2,100 |
Housing percentages
| Housing percentages | % |
|---|---|
| 1 child | 33% |
| 2 children | 40% |
| 3 children | 55% |
Standard of living multipliers
| Standard of living multipliers | × |
|---|---|
| Low | ×0.85 |
| Average | ×1.00 |
| Above average | ×1.15 |
| High | ×1.30 |
Other constants
Self-support reserve: ₪5,500
Special needs multiplier: ×1.25
Court discretion: ±15%
Limitations
- ⚠The calculator provides estimates only and does not constitute legal advice
- ⚠Actual amounts may vary based on court discretion
- ⚠The calculator does not account for extraordinary expenses or special circumstances
- ⚠Data is based on current rulings but may change over time
- ⚠Consult a lawyer for an accurate assessment
Frequently Asked Questions About the Detailed Calculation
What is earning capacity and how does it affect support?
Earning capacity allows the court to attribute a higher income to a parent who could earn more but chooses not to. In the calculator, when earning capacity is enabled, the maximum of actual income and imputed income is used for the calculation.
How is support calculated for a child with special needs?
A child with special needs receives a 25% supplement on base needs. For example, a child aged 6-11 with special needs: ₪1,750 × 1.25 = ₪2,187 per month. This supplement covers therapies, medications, and specialized care.
How does standard of living affect the support amount?
The support amount is multiplied by a standard of living factor: 0.85 for low, 1.0 for average, 1.15 for above average, and 1.30 for high. The court determines the standard based on the lifestyle the child was accustomed to before the separation.
Why is the result shown as a range rather than an exact amount?
The result is shown as a ±15% range because courts have discretion to adjust the amount based on each family's specific circumstances. The range reflects the judicial flexibility inherent in the ruling — courts may deviate up or down accordingly.
Content reviewed and verified by family law attorneys in Israel.
Last updated: March 2026