When parents live apart, determining how much each parent should contribute to the care and support of their children can be difficult. Naturally all parties want to make sure that the children have everything they need, but parents may disagree as to how much they should pay or receive in child support. That’s where the state can step in and mandate child support. Your attorney Chino Hills CA can help you understand this legal process. Check out these FAQs on the California Child Support Calculator to get started.
What is the California Child Support Calculator?
The California Child Support Calculator is a mathematical formula designed to help ensure that child support requirements are fair. The Calculator provides a baseline estimate of the appropriate amount of child support required in your case, based on factors like your income and whether or not you are a custodial parent.
What does the Child Support Calculator consider income?
Just about any money you have coming in from any source can be considered income for the purposes of the California Child Support Calculation. For example, gross wages, commissions, trust income, annuities, pensions, dividends, worker’s comp, unemployment, Social Security, and insurance benefits would all be considered income. At the judge’s discretion, the value of any perks you receive as part of your job, like a company car or phone, can be added to your income as well.
Can I deduct my expenses from my income?
The only expenses that the Child Support Calculator automatically deducts are your property and income taxes. Your car payment, rent, mortgage payment, and other necessary living expenses are not automatically considered. However, special deductions do exist, and you may be able to take advantage of them with help from an attorney Chino Hills CA.
Do I have to hire an attorney Chino Hills CA to use the Calculator?
No. You can utilize the Calculator on your own or with the assistance of a family law facilitator who works for the superior court in your county. However, hiring an attorney normally provides a higher level of personalized service and attention and enables you to secure all the deductions you are eligible for.
Am I guaranteed to receive/pay the amount specified by the Calculator?
The California Child Support Calculator only provides an estimate of the child support required in your case. The final decision will be made by the judge ruling in your child support case.
I don’t think the result of the Calculator is fair. What can I do?
You can petition for child support modifications if you believe that the unique circumstances of your case merit a deviation from the California Child Support Guidelines. For example, you can ask for a modification if you can prove that your child needs extra financial support or that the parent receiving the support has too much other income. To learn more about child support modifications, consult with an attorney Chino Hills CA.
