Cage & Miles Child Support Payment Calculator

A: In California, child support payments normally continue until the child turns 18 or graduates from high school, whichever is later. In cases of children with disabilities that prevent them from becoming self-sufficient adults at age 18, child support payments may continue into adulthood. In addition, if the parties have agreed to extend child support past the statutory time period pursuant to a written agreement that will be enforced by the court as well.

A: Child support orders are generally modifiable, except in limited circumstances. Upon request, the court will issue a new guideline order. If there has been a change to any of the child support input factors, a new guideline order will result.

A: Although you may wish to modify a child support order, filing a motion in court may not be the best approach. Parents who are seeking or paying child support should always speak with an experienced family law attorney to get help understanding their specific situation and the applicable laws.

A: Some of the factors that go into the final child support calculation can include:

• The number of minor children
• Other court-ordered child support payments
• The amount of time each parent cares for the children
• Tax filing status and dependent exemptions
• Income available for child support (broadly construed)
• Pre-tax retirement contributions
• Mandatory retirement contributions or union dues
• Taxes
• Health insurance premium deductions
• Property tax deductions
• Interest payment deductions
• Mandatory or discretionary add-ons