Unlike a child support order in Minnesota—which is based on a specific calculation—there is no formula for judges to use to setting alimony. Learn how child support is calculated under the Minnesota guidelines, how support orders are enforced in MN, and when you can change child support.This Child Support Guidelines Calculator is for informational purposes only and is not a guarantee of the amount of child support that will be ordered. The calculator is intended to be used to estimate the amount of child support the court may order on a case. You can apply for child support services using our online application. File for divorce in Minnesota in a timely, professional, and hassle free fashion. 3 Step Divorce's software gives you full control of the process. This article will examine the difference between alimony and child support, how each is determined, and other important factors to be aware of. For example, if you were married for 10 years, you could only collect alimony for up to five years. It should be noted that in the SIE, child support payments from all sources were included in the questionnaire.