Its usually 20-35% of income but a lot of factors go in it. Many states have a calculator online. You can negotiate as well or a judge can order more. Sounds like you'd need alimony which is tuff now.

My ex is SUPPOSED to pay a certain amount each month but it is rarely what I actually get. You need to assume that you might not get what is ordered. I don't even factor CS into my budget. If I get it, I think of it as a bonus. I know posters will say that CS can be enforced but your ex can be in arrears for a lot of money before any enforcement begins and even longer before you actually get any money. My ex didn't work for 8 months last year so he didn't pay any CS. The only thing that came out of me contacting CS was that his tiny tax refund was sent my way. I got it one year after he stopped paying (he stopped working last August and I got his small refund last month).

There isn't one. There is an online calculator for each state and DC. Just google "_____ state Child Support calculator" and fill out the worksheet. If you make more than certain combined income, the court makes a determination rather than using a formula.

I'm contemplating divorce but only if I know I can support my children on my own. DH makes 4 times my salary and without a significant child support payment, i couldn't even afford housing let alone anything else.

Based on experience, how much of a percentage of your exes weekly income was awarded for child support?

Thanks!