Introduction

California child support is determined by a strict statewide formula that calculate each parent’s income and their time-share with the child(ren). 
This guide explains:

· How the formula works

· What income counts

· How timeshare affects support

· How to modify support

· How support is enforced

How California Calculates Child Support

California uses the Guideline Formula based on:

1. Each parent’s net disposable income

2. Percentage of parenting time (timeshare)

3. Certain mandatory deductions

Courts typically use computer software programs to calculate the child support obligations, such as Xspouse. You can also use the California Child Support Guideline Calculator, found at the following website link: https://childsupport.ca.gov/guideline-calculator/.

What Counts as Income?

✔ Wages & salary

✔ Self-employment income

✔ Overtime & bonuses

✔ Rental income

✔ Commissions

✔ Stock compensation

✔ Unemployment benefits

✔ Disability benefits

Courts can also impute income if a parent:

· Is voluntarily unemployed

· Underemployed

· Intentionally earning less See In re: Marriage of Bardzik, 165 Cal.App.4th 1291, 1299-1300 (2008)

How Timeshare Affects Support

The more overnights a parent has, the lower their support obligation becomes due to the increased in timeshare.

Example:

· 80% timeshare → likely receives support

· 50/50 → support based on income difference

· 20% timeshare → likely pays higher support

Mandatory Add-Ons

In California, “child support add-ons” are additional expenses beyond the basic monthly payment that are split between the parents, either proportionally based on income or equally. Examples of court’s “add-ons” include the following:

✔ Childcare costs

✔ Health insurance premiums

✔ Uncovered medical/dental/vision expenses

✔ Travel expenses for visitation (sometimes)

Some are mandatory (childcare, medical), others are discretionary.

Modifying Child Support

Support can be modified when there is a material change of circumstances, such as:

· Job loss

· Reduced income

· Increased income

· Change in timeshare

· A child turning 18/graduating high school

· Change in childcare needs

Modifications are not retroactive — they start when a request is filed. Typically, this will require a Motion (Request for Order) filed with the Court, and a hearing date will be scheduled to consider if a modification of the child support is appropriate.

Enforcement of Child Support

Child support can be enforced through:

✔ Wage garnishment

✔ Bank levy

✔ Property liens

✔ Driver’s license suspension

✔ Passport denial

✔ Tax refund interception

✔ Interest at 10% annually

DCSS (Department of Child Support Services) may also intervene.

Conclusion

Understanding the formula gives parents clarity and control. If your income or parenting time has changed, courts allow modifications to reflect the new situation.

CHH LAW, P.C. — Child Support Attorneys

At CHH LAW, P.C., we are able to help parents calculate, negotiate, modify, and enforce child support orders.