California Child Support Calculator
Calculate child support in California using the state's official Income Shares Model. Includes custody adjustments, health insurance credits, and childcare deductions.
California divorces typically cost 7% less than the national average of $12,900.
Child Support in California
- Formula
- Income Shares Model
- Income cap
- None specified
- Equal parenting presumption
- No
- Property system
- Community property
Child Support Calculator in California: What You Should Know
California uses a complex income shares formula guided by the Dissomaster software, which California courts use to generate the guideline support amount. The formula accounts for both parents' net disposable incomes, after taxes, mandatory deductions, and certain expenses, rather than gross income as used in most other states. California's formula also heavily weights parenting time: a parent who has the children 50 percent of the time pays significantly less than one with 20 percent. The state has no hard income cap on child support, though courts can deviate from guideline in high-income cases where the guideline produces an amount that exceeds the children's needs.
Key point: California child support is calculated on net disposable income, not gross income. This is a meaningful distinction that typically produces lower payment amounts than gross-income states at the same earnings level.
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Locked to California on this page.
Use your gross (before-tax) monthly income. If you are paid annually, divide by 12.
Use their gross (before-tax) monthly income. If they are paid annually, divide by 12.
This estimate is for planning purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Consult a licensed family law attorney in your state for guidance specific to your situation.
Child Support in California - Frequently Asked Questions
How is child support calculated in California?
California uses the Income Shares Model to calculate child support. Both parents' gross incomes are combined, and each parent's share of the total obligation is proportional to their share of the combined income.
Can child support be modified in California?
Yes. Either parent can request a child support modification if there has been a substantial change in circumstances, such as a significant change in income, change in custody arrangements, or changes in the child's needs. Courts in California typically require a change of at least 15-20% in the support amount to justify modification.
Does custody arrangement affect child support in California?
Yes. Parenting time is a significant factor in child support calculations. When a parent has the children for a substantial portion of time (typically 40% or more overnights per year), child support is adjusted to reflect the additional direct costs that parent bears.
Is there an income cap for child support in California?
California does not set a specific income cap in its child support formula. However, courts have discretion to deviate from the guideline amount in cases with very high incomes.
How long does child support last in California?
Child support in California typically continues until the child turns 18 or graduates from high school, whichever is later. Support may continue longer if the child has a disability or if the parents agree to extend support for college expenses.
This estimate is for planning purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Consult a licensed family law attorney in your state for guidance specific to your situation.