When people think of child support, they usually picture one parent writing a monthly check to the other to help cover the costs of raising their child. While this is partially true, California law defines child support more broadly. As a family law attorney, I often work with clients who are surprised to learn that child support includes more than just a base monthly amount. California mandates additional financial responsibilities for parents commonly referred to as mandatory add-ons. These are not optional, and they are crucial to understand when planning for your child’s future and financial well-being.
What Is Child Support?
Child support in California is designed to ensure that both parents contribute financially to the upbringing of their children, regardless of their relationship status. It is calculated using a statewide guideline formula that takes into account factors such as:
- Each parent's income
- How much time the child spends with each parent
- Tax deductions
- Other relevant financial factors
The resulting amount is what we often refer to as the "guideline support." However, that’s just the starting point.
The Base Support Amount
The base child support payment is intended to cover:
- Basic living expenses for the child (food, clothing, shelter)
- Regular everyday costs that arise from raising a child
But in reality, raising a child involves much more than just food and shelter. That’s where mandatory add-ons come in.
What Are Mandatory Add-Ons?
Under California Family Code §4062, certain child-related expenses are considered mandatory add-ons to the base child support amount. These must be shared equally by both parents unless the court determines a different allocation based on the circumstances. These add-ons include:
1. Childcare Costs Related to Employment or Education
This includes reasonable childcare costs incurred by either parent in order to:
- Work
- Look for work
- Attend school or training to gain employment
For example, if a parent needs to enroll the child in after-school care while they are at work or attending a job-training program, those costs must be split between the parents in addition to the base support.
2. Uninsured Health Care Expenses
These are medical, dental, or vision expenses not covered by insurance, such as:
- Co-pays
- Prescription medications
- Orthodontics (braces)
- Emergency room visits
- Therapy or counseling sessions
Both parents are required to share these costs equally, unless the court finds good reason to apportion them differently.
Optional (Discretionary) Add-Ons
In addition to mandatory expenses, courts have the discretion to order parents to contribute to discretionary add-ons. These are not automatically required but can be ordered if deemed in the best interest of the child. Common discretionary add-ons include:
- Private school tuition
- College savings
- Extracurricular activities (sports, music lessons, tutoring, etc.)
- Special needs expenses beyond basic care
In high-conflict or complex financial cases, these discretionary add-ons can become a significant point of negotiation or litigation.
How Are Add-Ons Paid?
Add-ons can be paid directly to the service provider or reimbursed between parents. For example:
- One parent may pay for daycare and request reimbursement for 50% from the other parent.
- Alternatively, parents may agree to each pay their half directly to the provider.
It's important to document these payments carefully and provide receipts when seeking reimbursement. Miscommunication and lack of documentation are common sources of post-judgment conflict.
Court Orders and Enforcement
If your court order includes mandatory or discretionary add-ons, compliance is not optional. Failing to pay your share can result in legal consequences, including:
- Wage garnishment
- Contempt of court charges
- Interest accruing on unpaid add-ons
If you’re on the receiving end of unpaid add-on expenses, you can file a motion with the court to enforce the order. Keep detailed records to support your claim.
Tips to Avoid Conflict
- Get it in writing: Make sure your court order or judgment clearly outlines each party’s responsibilities for add-ons.
- Track everything: Keep records of payments, receipts, and correspondence related to add-ons.
- Be proactive: Don’t wait until tensions rise communicate early and often about upcoming expenses.
- Use apps if needed: Tools like OurFamilyWizard or TalkingParents can help manage reimbursements and communications objectively.
Child Support: Not Just a Number
Understanding what qualifies as child support (including the mandatory add-ons) is key to reducing conflict and ensuring your child receives the financial support they deserve. Child support is not just a number; it’s a structure designed to meet your child’s holistic needs, from daycare to medical care and everything in between.
If you have questions or concerns about your child support order, or if circumstances have changed significantly, speak with a family law attorney. The laws are clear, but each case is unique so getting it right from the beginning can save time, money, and stress in the long run.