Calculating an average child support payment in California can be challenging due to the wide range of individual circumstances and variables involved. However, the average monthly child support payment in California is currently believed to be around $400-500. It is important to note that this amount can vary greatly depending on factors such as the income of the parents, custody arrangements, and the needs of the children involved.
Child support payments are calculated using a specific formula that considers the non-custodial parent’s income, the custodial parent’s income, and the percentage of time each parent spends with the child. The standard child support percentage in California is 25% of the non-custodial parent’s net income for one child, and this percentage increases for additional children.
It is also important to note that child support orders may include "add-ons," which are additional expenses a parent may be required to pay, such as healthcare expenses for a sick child or reasonable schooling or training. The amount of child support ordered will vary significantly depending on many factors, and the county child support commissioner or family law judge has the final authority to determine the amount of a child support order.
