What financial documents must I gather and provide to the court when child support is being determined?

To determine child support, you must provide the court and the other party with a complete financial picture using an Income and Expense Declaration and its supporting documents. This process requires you to be thorough and honest about your income, assets, and certain expenses. Here are the steps to gather and provide the necessary financial documents: Step 1: Complete the Income and Expense Declaration You must fill out the Income and Expense Declaration (Form FL-150). You can find this form on the California Courts website. Answer every question completely and accurately. This form is the foundation of the court's financial analysis and is signed under penalty of perjury. Step 2: Gather Proof of All Income Collect pay stubs from the last two months from all employers. You will also need your W-2 and/or 1099 forms from the past two years. If you are self-employed, you must prepare a recent Profit and Loss statement and provide documents showing your business's gross receipts and expenses. Step 3: Collect Federal and State Tax Returns Gather complete copies of your personal and business federal and state tax returns for the last two years. These must include all schedules and attachments you filed, such as Schedule C for business income or K-1s for partnership income. Step 4: Document Other Key Information You must also provide documents related to other financial factors. This includes statements showing disability or unemployment benefits, health insurance costs for you and the children, mandatory retirement contributions, and costs for any extraordinary health needs of the children. Important considerations: You have an ongoing duty to be truthful. Hiding income or assets can lead to severe penalties, including being ordered to pay the other party's attorney's fees. The court can also base the support order on an income level it believes you are capable of earning if you are found to be voluntarily unemployed or underemployed. Note: You must file the original documents with the court clerk and formally serve copies on the other party (or their attorney) before your court hearing. Failure to do so can result in the judge refusing to hear your side or making an order based solely on the other party's evidence. This is general information and does not constitute legal advice. For complex situations, such as those involving business ownership or variable income, consult with a qualified California attorney.