How Child Support is Calculated Changes for the First Time in Decades
RANCHO CORDOVA, CA – Effective September 1, California child support orders will more accurately reflect the realities of parenting in the 21st century. The federal government has revised the formula used for calculating child support – unchanged for decades – and broadened the income ranges used to qualify parents for “low-income adjustments.” These adjustments are now tied to minimum wage in California and will be updated annually. These changes affect everyone in California and may alter what a parent in the child support program will pay and/or receive.
“Data has proven that when parents can pay their ordered amount, they do pay – the vast majority of paying parents want to support their kids,” said Kristen Donadee, Acting Director of California Child Support Services. “This change in calculation means right-sized orders can be created that are more realistic – it’s better for everyone when payments get made.”
BACKGROUND:
Until this change, child support was figured for three income levels – low-, middle- and high-earners – restricting beneficial “low-income adjustments” to only those in poverty. The new guidelines create a “low-middle” earning bracket that allows family law courts to acknowledge the difficulties faced by working parents earning a lower income but who are not on public assistance. This allows them to set orders more in line with a parent’s current expenses, making it easier for those parents to pay.
BIGGER PICTURE:
The federal Flexibility, Efficiency, and Modernization Final Rule project is a multi-phase effort that will help the child support program become more fair and equitable. This is especially true for marginalized communities which have been disproportionately affected since the beginning of the program. The result of these changes could be an increase or decrease in the total amount one may pay or receive each month. However, the goal is that orders are reasonable and affordable for all.
LEARN MORE:
If a parent is subject to a child support order and wondering if these changes might affect them, we encourage them to visit the California Child Support Services’ website to run a calculation specific to their situation. Additionally, they should reach out to the child support agency handling their case for personalized assistance and guidance.
To learn more about changes impacting the child support program in California, visit dcss.ca.gov/announcements.
