RCW 26.19.080(2) · 2026 Guidelines
Calculate how to split the cost of health insurance premiums for your children. Washington State law requires parents to share these costs proportionally based on income.
Children's portion only. Not your own coverage.
Enter income and premium to see the split analysis.
In Washington State, health insurance for children is a mandatory part of every child support order. Under RCW 26.19.080, parents are required to provide medical support for their children.
The court will typically order the parent who has access to the best health insurance at the most reasonable cost (usually through an employer) to maintain coverage for the children.
The cost of the insurance premium (specifically the portion attributable to the children) is shared between parents based on their respective incomes. If Parent 1 pays a $400 premium and earns 60% of the combined income, they are responsible for $240 of that cost, and Parent 2 must reimburse them for the remaining $160 (40%).
Health insurance is generally considered mandatory if it is available at a "reasonable cost," which is typically defined as not exceeding 5% of the parent's gross income.
Under RCW 26.19.080(2) premiums are split proportionally by income. The parent carrying insurance is reimbursed by the other parent.
Medical, dental, orthodontia, vision, chiropractic, mental health, prescriptions under RCW 26.19.080(2). These are separate from basic support.