The Legislature has decided child support will be determined by formula with each County free to slightly vary that formula to determine what is known as “Guideline” child support.
The Legislature further declared computer programs utilizing this formula must be used when calculating child support. Los Angeles uses the formula established by Santa Clara County, and the computer program employing it is known as the “DissoMaster.”
This article explains how to use the DissoMaster program. Beginning at the top, note that the program presents two (2) columns, one for mother, one for father.
The first query is “number of children.” This number is inserted into mother’s column (for purpose of this article, it is assumed all children live primarily with mother).
The next column sets forth percentage based on time spent with father. This is calculated using the program (click on field next to the number). The “advanced” option shows a slider or table. Use of either results in automatic placement of percentage into father’s column.
Note you cannot input equal custodial periods. The reason is that “Head of Household” status is awarded to that parent providing the greater percentage of support. Less than 50 percent and the child should be placed in the column of the other parent.
Moving down, set forth your tax filing status. Enter either W-2 Wage/Salary (note you can find it on a pay stub)*, or if self-employed use monthly net after reasonable business expenses.
If you have a health benefit plan, place the monthly amount paid for the plan in the “Health Insurance” column. Place any mortgage interest in the “itemized deductions” column, along with monthly amounts paid toward property taxes.
Move to “child support add-ons.” Enter the monthly amount paid for childcare so you can work or attend school. Also input amounts paid towards education for the children, such as tuition or books. You can also input travel expenses (such as plane tickets).
Once all amounts are entered, read the results in the middle of the printout under “Basic Child Support,” and Santa Clara SS (Santa Clara spousal support).
The foregoing is basic information for calculating child support in the DissoMaster.
If you have any questions, please contact The Reape-Rickett Law Firm at 661-288-1000.