Mississippi uses guidelines that consider both parents’ incomes, child care expenses, health insurance costs, and the custody arrangement to calculate support. The court evaluates gross income from wages, self-employment, and other sources, and then applies statutory calculations to determine a baseline payment amount. Deductions, such as certain taxes and mandatory retirement contributions, can affect the net income used in calculations. Judges may consider deviations if special circumstances justify different support based on the child’s needs or parental expenses. Understanding the required financial documentation and how guidelines apply helps parents anticipate likely outcomes. If you are preparing for a calculation, gather recent pay stubs, tax returns, documentation of childcare or medical expenses, and any proof of public benefits. Accurate, organized records speed the process and prevent disputes during hearings. For parents with variable income or self-employment, detailed records of earnings and business deductions are important for a fair assessment under Mississippi law. Local knowledge of Clay County procedures helps ensure calculations are presented clearly to the court.