California uses a mathematical formula to calculate child support — it’s not up to the judge’s discretion in most cases. Here’s how the guideline formula works.
The Guideline Formula
California Family Code § 4055 sets the formula:
CS = K [HN – (H%)(TN)]
Where: – CS = Child support amount – K = A factor based on both parents’ combined income and tax filing status – HN = High earner’s net monthly disposable income – H% = Percentage of time the high earner has physical custody – TN = Total net monthly disposable income of both parents
Don’t worry — you don’t need to calculate this by hand. The courts use DissoMaster or XSpouse software.
What Income Is Counted
Included in Income
- Wages and salary (gross)
- Overtime and bonuses
- Self-employment income
- Commissions and tips
- Rental income
- Investment income (interest, dividends)
- Social Security benefits
- Disability benefits
- Unemployment benefits
- Workers’ compensation
- Spousal support received from another relationship
Deductions Allowed
- Federal and state income taxes
- Social Security (FICA) contributions
- Health insurance premiums (for you, not the children)
- Mandatory retirement contributions
- Union dues
- Spousal support paid (to this spouse or another)
- Child support paid for other children
- Job-related expenses (in limited circumstances)
The Custody Factor
The amount of time each parent has custody directly affects the support amount. More time with the children = lower support obligation (because you’re spending more on direct care).
| Custody Split | Effect on Support |
| 0% (no custody) | Highest support payment |
| 20% (every other weekend) | High support payment |
| 50% (equal custody) | Significantly reduced support |
| 80% (primary custody) | May receive support |
Typical Monthly Amounts
These are rough estimates — actual amounts depend on your specific situation:
| Combined Monthly Income | 1 Child | 2 Children | 3 Children |
| $5,000 | $700–$1,000 | $1,100–$1,500 | $1,300–$1,800 |
| $8,000 | $1,100–$1,500 | $1,600–$2,200 | $2,000–$2,800 |
| $12,000 | $1,500–$2,200 | $2,200–$3,200 | $2,800–$4,000 |
Can You Deviate From the Guideline?
Judges can order amounts above or below the guideline in limited circumstances: – A parent’s extraordinarily high income – A parent is not contributing to the child’s needs – Special needs of the child – Travel expenses for visitation – Both parents agree to a different amount AND the children’s needs are met
How to Modify Child Support
If circumstances change, you can petition to modify child support. Common reasons: – Significant income change (job loss, raise, new job) – Change in custody time – Change in number of children – Remarriage affecting household income – Child reaches 18 or graduates high school
Superior Court Docs prepares modification petitions starting at $599.
📞 (213) 973-7248 or get started.
Related: Complete Child Support Guide | How to Modify Child Support | Child Support vs. Spousal Support
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