What Does Child Support Cover in California? 2025

The legal world of child support can seem overwhelming and emotional, leaving you with questions like, “What does child support cover in California?” and “Am I supposed to pay for everything myself?” It can leave you feeling dejected and lost. There is, however, something that can change your entire experience with child support law for the better.

Hiring a California child support lawyer can help in so many ways, the most important one being that when you do not have to juggle the legal and administrative complexities of your case, you can focus on what matters most — your child. That being said, there are still some basic things that you can benefit from knowing about child support before you head into negotiations.

What Does Child Support Cover in California?

The purpose of child support is to help the custodial parent provide for the child’s basic needs. Here are some examples of what can be classified as “basic needs”:

• Food. When you have a child, you are no longer just feeding yourself. This means that your grocery list and expenses will grow. Because the child needs food, this is a valid use of your child support funds.
• Shelter. While that studio apartment may have worked perfectly when you did not have children, odds are you will need a bigger space, and with more space comes higher utility expenses. It is important that you can pay rent or a mortgage regularly, as well as utility bills, as they contribute to the safety, security, and stability of the child’s life. Child support can be put toward these monthly bills to contribute to the child’s well-being.
• Clothing. Clothing is most definitely a basic need and, therefore, counts as a perfect use of child support. This includes all of the child’s clothing, such as a school uniform, clothes for different seasons, and new clothes after growth spurts occur.
• Healthcare. While child support can most definitely be put toward your child’s healthcare, it will not necessarily be able to cover everything. California Children’s Services (CCS) offers a unique program with specialized care for parents who may not otherwise be able to cover the cost.
• Education. Education is one of the more complicated areas of child support, as not everything is covered. While school supplies and uniforms are included under the child support umbrella, field trips, special education resources, and private school tuition often do not qualify for the use of child support funds.
• Child care. This is a very important resource for parents, and finding the right childcare options is a must. The California Child Care Resource & Referral Network (CCR&R) offers resources to do just that, helping you find child care in your neighborhood.

Why Would I Need a Child Support Lawyer?

Handling issues of family law can be an incredibly overwhelming, confusing, and emotional process. Once you have figured out your divorce, you need to set up a custody plan, which leads to a visitation arrangement, and then onto child support. It is a long journey, especially if you are facing it alone.

When you hire a child support lawyer, they can take on the responsibility of resolution, freeing you up to focus on your child. While the process may still be exhausting, your lawyer can cut back on the confusion, guiding you every step of the way.

Their compassion and skill can prove invaluable, especially when it comes time to negotiate child support costs. They can serve as an advocate for the needs of you and your beloved child, helping you remain calm amidst the rising emotions that the topic may lead to.

When you hire a lawyer from Edgar & Dow, you no longer need to face this journey alone. Support, compassion, and guidance may make all the difference in the pursuit of your desired outcome, as well as the life of your child.

FAQs

How Much Does a Child Support Lawyer Cost in California?

The final cost of a child support lawyer in California tends to vary based on factors that are unique to each case. Examples of this are how long it takes for your case to be resolved, the level of complexity your case presents, and the lawyer you choose to hire. At Edgar & Dow, there are lawyers ready to help you in your pursuit of familial rights, building cases worthy of every penny spent.

What Is Not Covered by Child Support in California?

Because child support in California only addresses the basic needs of a child, there will be some things that parents may need to pay for together. A few examples of this include travel expenses, even those used to accomplish the visitation rights of the non-custodial parent. Child support also does not include medical expenses that are not covered by insurance (excluding monthly premiums), including but not limited to co-pays, deductibles, and prescriptions.

Does Child Support Cover Extracurricular Activities in California?

While child support covers many things, extracurricular activities are not one of them. If your child wishes to play a sport, start ballet or gymnastics, play an instrument, or audition for the local theater, any additional costs these activities may incur must be covered outside of the child support funds. Parents can opt to split the cost, or if one parent prefers, they can cover the payments alone.

Are School Clothes Included in Child Support?

Yes. In California, clothes are considered a basic need, so they can be purchased with money from child support. This can include uniforms, dress-code-appropriate clothing, and/or clothes the child can wear that are generally suitable for attending school. In addition to clothes, school supplies can also be purchased with child support, as well as any necessary books or textbooks.

📞 Get Help Today

Navigating the confusing and emotional world of child support can feel isolating and discouraging. Fortunately, you need not shoulder this burden by yourself.
At Edgar & Dow, there are lawyers who are ready to pursue your desired outcomes by your side, advocating on your behalf and navigating you through hard conversations. You and your child matter, and so do your needs. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get the help you deserve today.

👉 Call (951) 684-6885 or visit edgarfamilylaw.com to get started.