Child support calculations are estimates only. Actual support orders depend on case-specific factors. Only a court can enter a binding support order.
Child Support
Pennsylvania uses the Income Shares Model to calculate child support obligations. Both parents' incomes are combined to determine the total support amount, which is then divided proportionally.
How Child Support is Calculated
Combined Monthly Net Income
After taxes, mandatory deductions, union dues, and alimony paid to a prior spouse.
Number of Children
The guidelines schedule increases the obligation for each additional child.
Custody Arrangement
A substantial reduction applies if the obligor has 40%+ overnight custody (Pa.R.Civ.P. 1910.16-4(c)).
Additional Expenses
Child care costs, health insurance premiums, and unreimbursed medical expenses are added proportionally.
Deviation Factors
Courts may deviate from guidelines based on unusual needs, assets, income of the child, or standard of living.
PA Guidelines Schedule (Selected Brackets)
| Combined Monthly Net | 1 Child | 2 Children | 3 Children |
|---|---|---|---|
| $1,500 | $366 | $507 | $570 |
| $2,000 | $466 | $648 | $728 |
| $3,000 | $628 | $899 | $1019 |
| $5,000 | $922 | $1289 | $1453 |
| $7,000 | $1163 | $1584 | $1756 |
| $10,000 | $1451 | $1974 | $2187 |
| $15,000 | $1697 | $2348 | $2623 |
| $20,000 | $1878 | $2641 | $2968 |
| $30,000 | $2083 | $2925 | $3286 |
Source: Pa.R.Civ.P. 1910.16-3. Values are approximate monthly basic child support obligations.
Interactive Estimator
Child Support Estimator
This is a simplified estimate based on the PA guidelines schedule. Actual support orders include additional factors (child care, health insurance, etc.).
Custody & Visitation →
Custody arrangements affect support calculations.
Spousal Support →
APL and alimony interact with child support amounts.
Allegheny County →
DRS filing location and local procedures.
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