California child support
California Child Support Calculator
Estimate monthly child support using California guidelines. Adjust both incomes, parenting time, and the number of children to see how each factor changes the amount.
Updated for 2026 California guidelinesYour situation
Your estimate
Estimated monthly child support
$500/mo
paid by you to the other parent
For an exact calculation, use the official California child support calculator.
Estimate only. Not legal advice. Confirm current guidelines with the official California child support agency.
How California calculates child support
California calculates child support using a statewide uniform guideline formula that considers both parents' net incomes and the percentage of time each parent has with the children. The formula was updated by Senate Bill 343 in September 2025 to use net income instead of gross.
State-specific details including deviation factors, modification procedures, and enforcement rules are available through the official California child support agency. Filing fees for divorce or custody proceedings in California typically run $435 to $535. Family attorneys in California generally charge $300 to $550 per hour.
- California uses a formula based on both parents' net incomes and parenting time
- The formula is CS = K[HN minus (H%)(TN)], where K depends on income and number of children
- Senate Bill 343 (Sept 2025) switched the formula from gross to net income
- Filing fee is $435 statewide
- California offers Summary Dissolution for marriages under 5 years with limited assets
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