FL-490 is a California family court form used when a party wants the court to formally determine the amount of unpaid child support, spousal support, or partner support, known as arrearages. Over time, missed payments, partial payments, interest charges, and changes in orders can make it unclear how much support is actually owed. FL-490 provides a structured way for a parent or the Local Child Support Agency (LCSA) to ask the court to calculate and confirm the exact arrears amount so it can be enforced.

The form requires the applicant to explain the history of the support order, including the date it was issued, the monthly amount, and any modifications that may have occurred. FL-490 is often accompanied by a payment history, such as the official governmental forms FL-420 and FL-421 or personal records documenting payments made directly between parents. This information helps the court examine how much support should have been paid versus how much actually was paid.

FL-490 is especially important because California support arrears accrue 10% annual interest, which can cause balances to grow quickly. The court must review the support order and payment history carefully to ensure that both principal and interest are calculated correctly. If one parent claims to have made payments that were not credited, or if there is a dispute over how payments were applied, FL-490 gives the court the information needed to resolve the disagreement and establish an accurate arrearage judgment.

Once the court determines the arrears, the judge may also issue orders related to repayment, such as setting a monthly amount toward arrears in addition to current support. An arrearages determination can also be used to support enforcement actions like wage garnishment, tax refund intercepts, property liens, or collection through the LCSA. The finalized arrears amount becomes a legally enforceable judgment, preventing future disputes about what is owed.

In summary, FL-490 is a critical form for anyone seeking clarity and a formal court ruling on unpaid support obligations. It ensures the arrears amount is calculated accurately, accounts for interest, and provides a clear foundation for enforcement or repayment plans. When completed thoroughly and supported with proper payment records, FL-490 helps the court resolve disputes and ensures both parties understand the exact amount of support that remains unpaid.