Mississippi calculates child support using guidelines that consider both parents’ gross incomes, allowable deductions, childcare and healthcare expenses, and the number of children. The process converts gross income into a support obligation using a statutory schedule and then adjusts for childcare, medical costs, and parenting time when appropriate. Courts in Lafayette County apply these state formulas while also considering documented circumstances that may affect a parent’s ability to pay. Accurate income documentation such as pay stubs and tax returns is essential for reliable calculations. If parties agree, they can present a negotiated support amount for court approval, but if they cannot agree the court applies the guidelines based on submitted financial records. Understanding how each element affects the final amount helps parents anticipate obligations and plan accordingly for the child’s needs in University and across Mississippi.