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California Child Support Calculator & Guidelines (2026)

Estimate California child support under Cal. Fam. Code § 4055 — Income Shares model, current caps and percentages, with a step-by-step worked example.

Estimate Your Child Support

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California Child Support Rules at a Glance

Guideline model Income Shares
Income basis Net (after-tax) income
How it works Statewide algebraic formula CS = K x (HN - H% x TN), where HN is the higher earner’s net disposable income, H% their share of parenting time, TN combined net income, and K a factor set by income bracket. Multi-child multipliers apply (x1.6 for two children, x2.0 for three).
Caps & limits Statewide uniform guideline (algebraic formula); low-income adjustment applies below statutory threshold
Statute / rule Cal. Fam. Code § 4055
Parameters verified 2026-07

Worked Example: $5,000 + $3,000 Income, Two Children

  1. Paying parent’s monthly income: $5,000 - other parent’s: $3,000 - two children, primary custody.
  2. Higher earner’s net income HN = $5,000; combined net TN = $8,000; higher earner’s timeshare H% = 20% (primary custody with the other parent).
  3. K factor: TN of $8,000 falls in the $6,667-$10,000 bracket, so K = (1 + 0.20) x (0.10 + 1,000/8,000) = 1.2 x 0.225 = 0.27.
  4. One-child amount: 0.27 x (5,000 - 0.20 x 8,000) = $918 - two-child multiplier x1.6 = $1,469 per month.

Result: $1,469 per month

California Child Support FAQ

How is child support calculated in California?

California uses the income shares model under Cal. Fam. Code § 4055: both parents’ incomes are combined, a basic obligation is determined, and each parent is responsible for their proportional share. Statewide algebraic formula CS = K x (HN - H% x TN), where HN is the higher earner’s net disposable income, H% their share of parenting time, TN combined net income, and K a factor set by income bracket. Multi-child multipliers apply (x1.6 for two children, x2.0 for three).

Does California use gross or net income for child support?

California calculates support on net (after-tax) income as defined in Cal. Fam. Code § 4055. Statewide uniform guideline (algebraic formula); low-income adjustment applies below statutory threshold.

Can a California court order more or less than the guideline amount?

Yes. The guideline amount under Cal. Fam. Code § 4055 is presumptive, not absolute - courts may deviate with written findings for factors like extraordinary medical or educational needs, other children supported, or very high income beyond the guideline range.

How do I apply for or modify child support in California?

Apply through the California child support agency or the family court in your county. Existing orders can be modified on a substantial change in circumstances - typically a significant income change, job loss, or a change in custody. The official calculator/worksheet is linked on this page (childsupport.ca.gov).

Official California Resources

Related Calculators & States

About This Estimate

Estimate only — not legal advice. Based on California guidelines (Cal. Fam. Code § 4055), last verified 2026-07. Courts may deviate. For an official figure use the official California calculator.