What it is used for
Form FL-150 shows your income, your monthly expenses, and what you own and owe. The court uses it to decide child support, spousal support and requests for attorney fees, and it is part of the financial disclosures every divorcing spouse must exchange.
What it asks for
- Employment: your job, employer, pay rate and hours.
- Income: your average monthly income, generally based on the last 12 months, including salary, overtime, bonuses, commissions, rental income and investment income.
- Deductions: taxes, mandatory retirement contributions, health insurance and union dues.
- Expenses: your monthly household expenses, including housing, food, utilities, transportation, insurance, child care and education.
- Assets: cash and checking, savings and investments, and other property.
What to attach
Attach your pay stubs for the last two months, with Social Security numbers blacked out. If you are self-employed, attach a profit and loss statement for your business. Expect to provide your most recent tax returns as well.
Keep it current
For a hearing, the form generally must have been completed within the past three months. If your income or expenses change, you may need to file an updated declaration before the court decides.
Common mistakes
- Leaving out income such as overtime, bonuses, side work or cash income.
- Guessing at expenses instead of checking statements.
- Listing expenses for a lifestyle you want rather than the one you have, without explaining the difference.
- Forgetting to sign it. The form is signed under penalty of perjury.
Your answers can be checked against your tax returns, bank statements and pay records, so accuracy protects your credibility with the court.
Family Code §§ 2104, 3552, 4058 · California Rules of Court, rule 5.260
This guide is general information about California family law, not legal advice for your situation. Every case is different.