How do states allocate child support payments?

In California, child support payments are determined using the state’s Child Support Guideline Calculations. Under this system, both parents’ incomes are taken into account as well as certain expenses, such as medical or day care costs for the child. Parents are expected to cover a certain percentage of their combined incomes to cover the child’s living expenses. When the court orders child support, it orders the paying parent to make payments to the custodial parent or to the State Disbursement Unit (SDU). The SDU is the central processing point for all court-ordered child support payments. It is responsible for collecting, recording, distributing, and enforcing court-ordered child support payments to ensure that the custodial parent receives the payments. The court can also order the paying parent to provide health insurance for the child, as well as pay for educational and extracurricular activities. The court can also include provisions in the order that guide how the money should be spent. The court may allow the custodial parent to buy items of necessity, such as clothing, food, or basic living expenses. The court may modify child support payments if the paying parent’s financial circumstances change significantly. However, modifications must be approved by the court. Furthermore, any delinquent or missed payments must be paid in full before the court can consider further modifications.

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How do states allocate child support payments?

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