California Child Support Calculator

How California's Guideline Formula Works

California uses a special math rule that looks at both parents' net incomes and the exact amount of time you each spend with your children. It treats your family's money like one big pie and figures out each parent's slice for supporting the kids based on income and parenting time.

Understanding California's Shared Custody Rules

In California, parenting time is a huge factor in the support calculation. The formula directly considers the percentage of time each of you has the children, so as parenting time becomes more equal (like 50/50), the support amount generally decreases. This is because the state assumes the parent with more time is already spending more money directly on the child's daily needs.

Frequently Asked Questions About CA Child Support

At what age does child support end in CA?

In California, child support typically ends when a child turns 18. However, if the child is still a full-time high school student and lives with a parent, support continues until they graduate or turn 19, whichever comes first.

How is child support calculated if one parent is unemployed in CA?

If a parent is unemployed or underemployed, a judge can 'impute' income. This means the court calculates support based on what that parent has the ability and opportunity to earn, based on their skills, education, and job history. Support is rarely set to zero unless the parent is proven to be unable to work.

How do I modify a child support order in CA?

You can ask the court to modify a child support order if there has been a 'significant change in circumstances.' This can include a major change in either parent's income, a change in the parenting time-share, or the needs of the child. While there is no exact percentage, a substantial change is required to justify a modification.

Does CA child support cover college expenses?

No, California law does not require parents to pay for college or post-secondary education. The legal obligation for child support ends at age 18 (or 19 if still in high school). Parents can, however, make a separate, legally binding agreement to share college costs.

How does CA handle health insurance and childcare costs?

These are considered mandatory 'add-ons' to the base child support amount. The costs for health insurance premiums and necessary, job-related childcare are typically divided equally (50/50) between the parents. However, a judge can order a different split based on each parent's net income.