Illinois Parenting Time Calculator

This tool estimates the number of overnights each parent has with the child based on a regular weekly schedule and holiday deviations, consistent with Illinois law under 750 ILCS 5/602.7.

1. General Information

2. Weekly Parenting Schedule

3. Holiday & Vacation Adjustments (Total Days)

4. Additional Days Outside Normal Schedule

Results

Total Days in Period: 0

Parent A Total Overnights: 0

Parent B Total Overnights: 0

Shared Parenting Formula Likely Applies?

What is Parenting Time in Illinois

Illinois no longer uses the term “custody” in its laws. Instead, the law distinguishes between:

  • Parental responsibilities (decision-making authority)
  • Parenting time (physical time with the child)

Under 750 ILCS 5/602.7, parenting time should be in the best interests of the child, considering factors like:

  • The child’s relationship with each parent
  • The child’s adjustment to home, school and community
  • The parents’ ability to cooperate and communicate
  • Any history of abuse or neglect

Illinois courts encourage shared parenting, but that doesn’t always mean 50/50. Instead, parenting time is based on what’s best for the family and the child.

How to Use the Illinois Parenting Time Calculator

Our calculator helps estimate how parenting time is divided between parents. Here’s what each input means:

1. General Information

You’ll start by selecting a Start Date and End Date — usually a full year. The calculator uses this range to calculate the total number of days. This allows for annual parenting time comparisons and ensures partial weeks are accounted for.

2. Weekly Parenting Schedule

Enter the number of overnights each parent has in a typical week. A few common arrangements:

  • 50/50 split: Both parents have the child 3.5 days/week.
  • 60/40 split: One parent has 4 days/week, the other 3.
  • Every other weekend: One parent has the child 3 days every 2 weeks (1.5 days/week).Parenting time changes for holidays and vacations. Use this section to enter extra time each parent has with the child during school breaks and special days. For example:
  • Parent A has the child for Thanksgiving every odd-numbered year.
  • Parent B takes the child for 2 weeks in July.

Enter those days here to reflect the deviation from your regular weekly schedule.

4. Additional Days

This section is for make-up time, midweek visits or first-right-of-refusal days. Enter any extra overnights outside the normal schedule and holiday allotments.

How Parenting Time Affects Child Support

In Illinois, parenting time percentages can impact the amount of child support. Generally:

  • When a parent has more than 146 overnights per year (40% of the time), the court may use a shared parenting formula, which reduces the amount owed based on shared time.
  • The calculator can help you figure out if you cross that 146-night threshold.

Need Help Drafting or Modifying a Parenting Plan?

The calculator is a helpful tool, but it’s not a substitute for legal advice. Every parenting plan in Illinois must be approved by the court and comply with the law’s best interest standard.

At O’Flaherty Law, we work with families to create, modify or enforce parenting time arrangements that are in the best interest of the child and protect parental rights. If you need help understanding your options or resolving a dispute, contact us today for a consultation.

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