Our state-of-the-art calculator provides precise estimates based on California's Department of Child Support Services guidelines. Simply input your information below to receive an instant calculation.
Basic Information
Income Details
Custody & Time
Deductions & Credits
Results
Custodial Parent
Non-Custodial Parent
Your Information
Other Parent's Information
Simple
Advanced
Advanced calendar scheduling available in the premium version
Your Deductions & Credits
Other Parent's Deductions & Credits
Calculating your child support estimate...
California's Child Support Legal Framework
Guideline Formula
California uses a complex algebraic formula called the "guideline formula" to determine child support. This formula takes into account both parents' incomes, tax filing status, and the amount of time each parent spends with the children.
Parenting Time
The amount of time each parent spends with the children significantly impacts the support calculation. The more time a parent spends with the children, the less support they may be required to pay.
Income Considerations
All sources of income are considered, including wages, self-employment, bonuses, commissions, rental income, dividends, interest, and unemployment benefits. The court may also impute income if a parent is voluntarily unemployed or underemployed.
In Santa Clara County (San Jose), child support cases are handled by the Department of Child Support Services (DCSS) and the Family Court. Our calculator follows the same guidelines used by these authorities to provide accurate estimates.
Premium Calculator Features
Scenario Comparison
Compare multiple scenarios side-by-side to understand how different factors affect your child support obligation.
Visual Analytics
Interactive charts and graphs help visualize how different factors impact your support calculation.
Advanced Scheduling
Create detailed custody calendars to accurately calculate parenting time percentages.
Export Options
Save, print, or email your calculations in PDF format for your records or to share with attorneys.
Secure Storage
Securely save your calculations to access later or to track changes over time.
Sensitivity Analysis
See how changes in income or parenting time would affect your support amount.
Customization Options
Our premium calculator offers extensive customization options to match your specific situation. Below are some of the ways you can tailor the calculator to your needs:
Income Variations
Schedule Patterns
Special Expenses
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate is this child support calculator?
Our calculator uses the same guideline formula employed by California courts and the Department of Child Support Services. While it provides a highly accurate estimate based on the information you provide, the final court-ordered amount may differ based on judicial discretion and other factors specific to your case.
Can child support be modified after it's been ordered?
Yes, child support orders can be modified if there has been a "change in circumstances" since the last order. This could include changes in income, parenting time, employment status, or the needs of the children. Our calculator can help you estimate what the new amount might be based on these changes.
What income is included in child support calculations?
California considers almost all sources of income, including wages, salaries, commissions, bonuses, self-employment income, rental income, dividends, interest, unemployment benefits, disability payments, workers' compensation, and pension/retirement benefits. Our calculator allows you to input all these various income sources.
How does parenting time affect child support?
In California, the amount of time each parent spends with the children (known as "timeshare" or "parenting time") significantly impacts the support calculation. Generally, as a parent's time with the children increases, their support obligation decreases. Our calculator's advanced scheduling features help you accurately determine your parenting time percentage.
Do I need to hire a lawyer to establish child support?
While you can establish child support without an attorney by working with your local Department of Child Support Services or representing yourself in court, many people choose to hire a lawyer for complex cases. Our calculator can help you understand what to expect regardless of which path you choose.
Conclusion
Navigating child support calculations in San Jose doesn't have to be overwhelming. Our premium calculator provides you with accurate estimates based on California's guidelines while offering an intuitive, user-friendly experience. By understanding how factors like income, parenting time, and additional expenses affect your support obligation, you can approach your case with confidence and clarity.
Remember that while our calculator provides highly accurate estimates, consulting with a family law attorney for advice specific to your situation is always recommended. Child support is an important financial obligation that ensures your children's needs are met, regardless of your relationship with the other parent.
