California Child Support Laws – All You Need to Know

This past year, the state of California has made big changes to its existing child support laws and adjusted the formula used to calculate child support. Child support is meant to provide for the basic needs of a child, such as clothing, food, and stability. California child support laws can be confusing, but a skilled family lawyer can help you understand what is new.

Child Support Changes in California

In 2025, the California child support calculation formula changed as part of Senate Bill 343. This bill adjusted the child support formula to better represent both parents’ financial situations.

This new law adjusts for lower-income parents, bases child support calculations on net disposable income instead of gross income, and divides additional child expenses, like childcare and medical care, based on income.

If you’re currently between jobs and worried about how support is calculated, our guide on child support while unemployed explains what California courts may still require and when a modification could help.

The average noncustodial parent in California makes less than $15,000 a year and still owes more than double that in child support. This new law and child support formula adjustment aim to help these lower-earning noncustodial parents avoid debt due to child support.

The law also allows parents to evaluate orders regularly as their child’s needs change or their situations change. Additionally, parents who are incarcerated will now have their support orders suspended until several months after their release.

Another major change with SB 343 is that driver’s licenses are no longer allowed to be suspended for unpaid child support for low-income parents. For a more in-depth overview of these new changes and to understand how they will impact you, hire a trusted child support lawyer.

Federal Child Support Law Changes

The federal government has made some important updates to child support laws over the last year. The Supporting America’s Children and Families Act (H.R. 9076) has brought changes to make the system work better for everyone involved.

This act increases enforcement so that parents cannot stop paying support without consequence. It allows low-income families to receive public support and provides flexibility for gig workers and those who do not have a stable income. States have been given a grace period of two years to make these changes.

The Unborn Child Support Act (S. 230) is a pending legislation that allows pregnant women to receive child support for pregnancy-related expenses such as medical visits and prenatal vitamins.

This piece of legislation is a landmark in that it acknowledges a baby with financial responsibility before birth. States are still working through the implications of this bill and how it will affect the onset of parenting responsibilities prior to passing it into law.

Effects of New Child Support Laws in California – How Our Firm Can Help

With these new laws in place, more child support payments will be sent directly to families instead of being kept by the state. The problem is that many parents are not aware that they qualify or that these new changes have taken place.

Our legal team can review your family’s personal situation and finances to help request modifications and apply for these adjustments. Child support cases can be complex and overwhelming. You may be worried about upsetting the noncustodial parent by reviewing your existing orders. Rest assured that with these new laws in place, calculations will be more fair and may be more beneficial to all involved.

Why Choose Erica Bloom Law

At Erica Bloom Law, we have dedicated over 10 years to helping parents advocate for themselves and their children. Our lead attorney is passionate about helping children and serves as Court Appointed Minor’s Counsel and Guardian Ad Litem when children in family court do not have family or guardians to represent them. As a firm, we fight for the best interests of children to make sure they are taken care of.

FAQs

How Far Back Can Child Support Be Claimed in California?

If a court order is already in place for child support, there is no limit on how far back child support can be claimed. Once a court order exists, arrears do not expire and can be collected at any time, even once the child is an adult. California also imposes a simple interest annually on all unpaid support.

What Are Fathers’ Rights in California for Child Support?

In California, both parents have equal rights when it comes to child support. The court will always focus its efforts on what is in the best interests of the child. Either parent has the right to seek 50/50 custody and has the right to challenge paternity. Under the new 2025 laws, the father may be eligible for low-income adjustments to any existing or new child support order.

Are Parents Required to Pay Child Support if They Have Equal Custody in California?

Yes, parents can still be ordered to pay child support in California even if they have equal custody. This may be further enforced because the new laws now factor in income disparity between parents and not the custody split. With joint custody arrangements, the higher-earning parent will typically be ordered to pay the lower-earning parent to ensure the child’s standard of living is being met.

What Is the Average Child Support Payment for One Child in California?

The average child support payment for one child varies in California. There is no fixed child support amount, as support is calculated using a formula mandated by law that is based on both parents’ net monthly disposable income, custody, and costs for daycare and healthcare. This formula is used to ensure that there is a fair contribution from both parents, and a judge makes the final call when signing the order.

Hire a Child Support Lawyer in California

With major changes to both state and federal child support laws in 2025, you may be eligible for low-income discounts on child support payments. Our team at Erica Bloom Law can take the time to review the recent changes to the law with you and determine if you need a child support modification. Contact our family law firm today to get started.