The residential schedule defines when each parent has the child. It determines which parent is the primary residential parent for child support purposes and may be used to request a parenting time deviation under RCW 26.09.187.
RCW 26.09.187 governs residential schedules in Washington. The schedule determines which parent is the primary residential parent — the parent with whom the child lives the majority of the time. This parent typically receives the transfer payment.
The primary residential parent receives the transfer payment from the other parent. If the paying parent has significant time under the residential schedule they may request a parenting time credit deviation to reduce their transfer payment. Understanding this term is important when completing your child support calculation. Use our worksheet calculator to see how this applies to your case.
A 50/50 equal residential schedule is handled by the court using discretion and written findings of fact. No fixed formula exists.
A residential schedule that gives the paying parent more time can support a deviation request that meaningfully reduces the transfer payment. Courts require documented evidence of the schedule — a signed parenting plan or court order showing the actual days and times. Calculate your overnights with our <a href='/parenting-time-calculator' class='text-blue-600 hover:underline'>parenting time calculator</a>.
Not automatically. Even with equal time the parent with higher income typically still pays support to equalize resources available to the child in each household.
Use our 2026 Washington State estimator to see how these legal terms impact your support amount. All calculators are RCW 26.19 compliant.