Mississippi calculates child support using guidelines that consider gross income of both parents, custody arrangements, and necessary child-related expenses like childcare and medical costs. Courts rely on documented income such as pay stubs and tax returns to complete standardized worksheets and determine a baseline support amount. Adjustments may be made for extraordinary expenses or specific needs of the child. Understanding the inputs that feed the calculation helps parents gather the right documentation and set realistic expectations about potential outcomes. If either parent has irregular or complex income, the court may require additional proof or adjust calculations accordingly. When preparing for a calculation, ensure you have recent wage statements, tax returns for the past two years, records of childcare or medical expenses, and documentation of any other income sources. If you are self-employed or receive benefits, gather bank statements and related financial records that demonstrate consistent earnings. Clear documentation reduces disputes about income and supports a fair outcome based on the child’s needs and the parents’ financial capacities.