Melson Formula
The Melson Formula is a child support calculation method used in a small number of U.S. states (such as Delaware) that builds in a self-support reserve for each parent before allocating support to the children. Florida does NOT use the Melson Formula. Instead, Florida calculates child support using the Income Shares Model under its statutory guidelines, which combine both parents' net incomes and the number of overnights to set the obligation.
Last updated June 21, 2026
Legal Definition
A child support model preserving a parental subsistence allowance before computing the child's share; Florida instead applies the Income Shares guidelines under F.S. §61.30.
Example
Although a friend in another state mentioned the Melson Formula, their Florida child support was figured under the state's income-shares guidelines instead.
Related Statutes
- 61.30
Related Terms
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