When parents separate or divorce, determining a fair and accurate child support amount is one of the most important steps in protecting the child’s well-being. In California, child support is calculated based on a statewide formula—but the real-life application of that formula can be complex.

At Salick Family Law Group, APLC, we help parents across Los Angeles County understand how child support is calculated, what factors influence the outcome, and how to ensure the final order reflects the true needs of your child and family.

📊 The Basics of California’s Child Support Formula

California courts use a specific formula known as the “guideline child support calculation” to determine the appropriate amount one parent pays the other. This formula considers:

• Each parent’s income
• The number of children shared
• How much time each parent spends with the child (custody/visitation)
• Tax filing status and deductions
• Mandatory payroll deductions (like union dues or health insurance)
• Other child support or spousal support obligations

The result is intended to balance the financial responsibility between both parents while prioritizing the best interests of the child.

💰 What Counts as Income?

For calculation purposes, “income” includes more than just your paycheck. It can include:

• Salaries and wages
• Commissions, bonuses, tips
• Rental income
• Unemployment or disability benefits
• Dividends and interest
• Self-employment earnings

In some cases, the court may also “impute” income to a parent who is voluntarily unemployed or underemployed—meaning the court assigns an income level based on earning potential.

⏱️ Time-Sharing Matters More Than You Think

Child support is heavily influenced by the amount of time each parent spends with the child. The more overnight visits you have, the lower your financial obligation may be. Conversely, if one parent has primary physical custody, the other may be responsible for a higher percentage of the child’s expenses.

Because of this, accuracy in calculating parenting time is critical. We help ensure your custody arrangement is clearly documented and reflected in the support order.

🏥 Other Expenses and Adjustments

In addition to base support, California courts may require parents to share:

• Health insurance premiums and medical costs
• Childcare and daycare expenses
• Educational expenses
• Travel costs for visitation (if parents live far apart)

These factors can be negotiated and added into the court’s final order to reflect the child’s actual financial needs.

⚖️ Can the Court Deviate from the Guideline Formula?

Yes. While the guideline formula is the default, the court can adjust support up or down in certain cases. This may happen when:

• The parents have extremely high incomes
• A child has special needs
• One parent’s income is unusually low or unstable
• There’s evidence of financial manipulation or hidden income

At Salick Family Law Group, we present strong evidence and clear documentation to ensure your child support amount is truly fair—whether you’re paying or receiving.

🛡️ Work with an Experienced Child Support Attorney in Los Angeles

Every family is different. At Salick Family Law Group, APLC, we tailor our approach to your unique circumstances—whether you’re entering a new custody agreement or modifying an existing order.



We understand the numbers, but we also understand what they mean for your daily life. Let us help you protect your child’s future with clarity, compassion, and precision.