Child Support Paperwork in California

The court says guideline support looks at each parent's income, tax filing status, and time with the children. A free calculator is available at childsupport.ca.gov. We prepare the forms and do not calculate or advise what amount applies to you.

Form FL-150, Income and Expense Declaration, revised effective September 1, 2024. It gives the court and the other side the financial details used to decide support. We organize the numbers you provide into the form.

The court says a person with no family law case can ask the local child support agency to open a case, which covers parentage and child support but not custody or visitation. Or you can start your own case in court. We prepare paperwork for the court route.

The court says the agency's lawyer goes to court but does not represent either parent. In agency cases, the agency must approve an agreement to change support. Check with your local child support agency whether it is in your case.

The court says a judge approves a child support agreement only if the court knows the guideline amount, even when parents agree on a different one. We prepare the agreement you direct and cannot say what amount is right for you.