The DissoMaster calculator is a widely used software tool in California for calculating child support, spousal support, and other family law-related financial calculations. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to use the DissoMaster calculator effectively.
Obtaining the DissoMaster Program
To start using the DissoMaster calculator, you need to obtain the software. It can be purchased online, and there are various options available, including versions for different devices such as iPads through iTunes[2][3][5].
Data Entry
The DissoMaster program requires detailed data entry to calculate support amounts accurately. Here are the key steps:
Open the Program: When you open the DissoMaster program, you will see multiple data entry lines on the left-hand side of the screen. These lines include fields such as “Number of Children,” “Percent Time with Non-Custodial Parent,” “Wages and Salary,” “Other Taxable Income,” and “Health Insurance”[2][3][5].
Enter Financial Information: You need to enter financial data for both the father (or husband) and the mother (or wife) in their respective columns. For example, you would enter the wages and salary of each party in the corresponding columns[2][3].
Custodial Time Share: If you are calculating child support, you must enter the percentage of time the children spend with the non-custodial parent. This is crucial for accurate child support calculations[3][5].
Other Relevant Data: Enter other relevant data such as health insurance costs, other taxable income, and any other financial information that applies to your case.
Running the Calculation
After entering all the necessary data:
Complete the Data Entry: Ensure all relevant fields are filled in. Not all data entry lines will apply to every case, so you can skip those that do not pertain to your situation[3].
Calculate the Support: Once you have entered all the data, press the Enter key on your keyboard. The program will then calculate the support amounts, which will appear in the middle of the printout[2][3].
Understanding the Printout
The printout from the DissoMaster program will include several key pieces of information:
Child Support: If you are calculating child support, the base child support number will be highlighted in the center of the printout[3].
Spousal Support: For spousal support calculations, the spousal support number will also be displayed in the middle of the printout. If you do not have minor children, the program will only calculate the spousal support amount[2].
Bonus Chart: The printout often includes a bonus chart that provides additional information and scenarios, which can be useful for understanding different settlement options[2][3].
Additional Features and Tips
Combining with Other Tools: For more accurate calculations, especially regarding parenting time, you can use the Custody X Change visitation timeshare calculator in conjunction with DissoMaster[5].
Updates and Compliance: The DissoMaster program is regularly updated to reflect changes in California state and federal formulas. This ensures that your calculations are always based on the latest guidelines[5].
Companion Software: DissoMaster comes with companion software such as Propertizer for asset and debt division and Executioner for calculating arrears and late payments[5].
Technical Support: DissoMaster offers free technical support, online training, and annual updates, making it a robust tool for family law professionals and individuals alike[5].
Important Facts About the DissoMaster Calculator
Wide Use in California Courts: The DissoMaster program is extensively used by courts in California for calculating child support and spousal support[2][3][5].
Detailed Data Entry: The program requires detailed financial and custodial information to provide accurate support calculations[2][3].
Flexibility: DissoMaster can calculate child support, spousal support, or both, and it can also handle cases without minor children by focusing solely on spousal support[2].
Regular Updates: The software is updated regularly to ensure compliance with the latest California state and federal formulas[5].
Companion Software: It comes with additional tools like Propertizer and Executioner to handle asset division, debt division, and arrears calculations[5].
Technical Support: Users have access to free technical support, online training, and annual updates[5].
By following these steps and understanding the features of the DissoMaster calculator, you can accurately calculate support amounts and navigate complex family law financial calculations with confidence.
