California Child Support Calculator
Estimate monthly child support under California's official guideline model. Updated for 2026.
Last reviewed July 2026 · Free · Nothing you enter is stored
Income Shares state
Before taxes. Include wages, self-employment, bonuses.
Every-other-weekend ≈ 80. Equal custody ≈ 182.
$0
estimated monthly child support ·
Guideline estimate, not a court order or legal advice. Courts may deviate based on your circumstances.
Compare with California's official calculator ↗
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How California calculates child support
California uses the income shares model: both parents' incomes are combined, a basic support obligation is determined from the state's guideline schedule, and each parent is responsible for their proportional share. The parent without primary custody typically pays their share to the other household.
Governing law: Cal. Fam. Code § 4055 — Statewide uniform formula on net disposable income; SB 343 revisions (K-factor, expanded low-income adjustment) effective Sept 1, 2024.
California publishes an official calculator that applies the full guideline schedule: official California child support calculator. Use ours for a quick, private estimate and theirs when you need the exact worksheet figure.
Frequently asked questions
How is child support calculated in California?
California uses the income shares model: both parents' incomes are combined, a basic support obligation is determined from the state's guideline schedule, and each parent is responsible for their proportional share. The parent without primary custody typically pays their share to the other household. The guideline is set by Cal. Fam. Code § 4055.
Is this the exact amount a California court will order?
No — this is a guideline estimate. Courts start from the guideline amount but can deviate for factors like extraordinary medical costs, special needs, other support obligations, or agreements between parents. For an official figure, use the state’s own calculator linked on this page or consult a family law attorney.
Does parenting time affect child support in California?
In most states, including under most guideline models, substantial parenting time (often above roughly 20–30% of overnights) reduces the paying parent's obligation. Our calculator applies a simplified parenting-time adjustment; California's courts apply their own specific rules, so treat shared-custody results as rough estimates.
What income counts for child support in California?
Generally all income: wages, self-employment, bonuses, commissions, and often investment income. California's guideline applies to net (after-tax) income — our calculator approximates net income from the gross figures you enter. Courts may also impute income to a parent who is voluntarily unemployed or underemployed.
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