Child Support Calculation in California
In child support cases, the court that takes the case applies its own state laws, and those laws can significantly impact the outcome. California uses a statewide uniform guideline formula to calculate child support. California courts do not just look at who earns more, but it also considers how much time each parent spends with the child. This means that custody arrangements directly influence financial obligations. The more time you have with your child, the less you will pay in child support.
California courts typically use the Xspouse calculator to determine what guideline formula is. Typically, courts will order what the guideline amount is, but there is no legal cap on child support. This means California courts can deviate from guideline and instead order an amount below or above guideline. For instance, if a parent is significantly wealthy, the court might find that the guideline amount is insufficient to maintain the child’s accustomed standard of living and so the court might order a higher child support amount to ensure the child can maintain the same standard of living at both parents homes. It is best to consult with an experienced family law attorney to discuss your unique case and whether you have a case for below or above guideline child support.
The formula (CS = K (HN – (H%)(TN)) breaks down as follows:
- CS: The child support amount.
- K: A factor based on the income of both parents and the number of kids.
- HN: Net monthly disposable income of higher-earning parent.
- H%: Percentage of time the higher-earning parent has primary physical responsibility for the child.
- TN: The total net monthly disposable income of both parents.
The formula provides a guideline, but the final child support order may be adjusted based on the unique circumstances of each case. Courts can and do adjust the amount for things like extraordinary medical expenses, educational needs, cost of housing, disparities in parental income, and standard of living.
Contact Cardwell Steigerwald Young, LLP
Our experienced team of San Francisco family law attorneys can help you strategize your best path forward in your child support matter. Contact our elite team today to begin discussing your own unique case and next steps.
