How Much Is Child Support in California? (2026 Guide)

California uses the Income Shares model to calculate child support, considering both parents' incomes and the amount of time each parent spends with the children. As one of the most populous states, California's child support system handles millions of cases and has some of the most detailed guidelines in the country.

California's Child Support Formula

California's formula is codified in Family Code §4055 and is one of the few states that provides an algebraic formula rather than a simple table lookup. The formula considers:

• Both parents' net disposable income
• The percentage of time each parent has the children
• Tax filing status and deductions
• Additional children from other relationships

The basic formula is:

CS = K[HN − (H%)(TN)]

Where:

• CS = Child support amount
• K = Amount of both parents' income allocated for child support
• HN = High earner's net monthly disposable income
• H% = Approximate percentage of time the high earner has the children
• TN = Total net monthly disposable income of both parents

What to Expect: Typical California Child Support Amounts

Here are approximate monthly child support amounts based on common scenarios (non-custodial parent paying, with standard visitation of ~20% time):

| Combined Monthly Income | 1 Child | 2 Children | 3 Children | |------------------------|---------|------------|------------| | $5,000 | $800-$1,000 | $1,200-$1,500 | $1,400-$1,800 | | $8,000 | $1,100-$1,400 | $1,700-$2,100 | $2,000-$2,500 | | $10,000 | $1,300-$1,700 | $2,000-$2,500 | $2,400-$3,000 | | $15,000 | $1,800-$2,300 | $2,800-$3,500 | $3,300-$4,200 |

These are estimates. Actual amounts depend on specific income split, custody time, deductions, and other factors.

Factors That Affect California Child Support

Income Considerations

California uses net disposable income, which starts with gross income and subtracts:

• State and federal income taxes
• Social Security and Medicare (FICA)
• Mandatory union dues
• Mandatory retirement contributions
• Health insurance premiums
• Existing child/spousal support orders
• Job-related expenses (in some cases)

Custody Time Matters Significantly

California's formula is very sensitive to custody time. Even small changes in the timeshare percentage can significantly affect support:

• 80/20 split: Standard support amount
• 70/30 split: Noticeable reduction (roughly 10-15% less)
• 60/40 split: Significant reduction (roughly 25-35% less)
• 50/50 split: Substantially reduced, but usually not zero unless incomes are equal

High-Income Cases

For high-income parents (combined income above $30,000/month), courts have discretion to deviate from the formula. The guideline amount is presumed correct, but judges can consider the child's actual needs and the family's standard of living.

How to Calculate Your California Child Support

1. Gather income documents: W-2s, tax returns, pay stubs for both parents
2. Determine custody schedule: Count the actual overnights each parent has per year
3. Use our California Child Support Calculator: Enter your specific details for a personalized estimate
4. Compare with the official DissoMaster: California courts use DissoMaster or XSpouse software for official calculations

Modifying California Child Support

You can request a modification when there's a "change of circumstances," including:

• Income change of 20% or more
• Change in custody arrangement
• Change in children's needs
• Job loss or disability
• New spouse's income is not directly considered

To modify, file form FL-300 (Request for Order) with your local family court.

California Child Support Enforcement

California's Department of Child Support Services (DCSS) provides free enforcement services:

• Wage garnishment
• Tax refund interception
• License suspension
• Bank levies
• Passport denial (for arrears over $2,500)

Key Takeaways

• California uses a complex algebraic formula based on both parents' incomes
• Custody time significantly impacts the support amount
• Net disposable income (after taxes and deductions) is used
• The formula is presumed correct, but courts can deviate in special circumstances
• Use our Child Support Calculator to estimate your California obligation

For detailed state guidelines, visit the California child support page.