Pennsylvania Child Support Calculator

How PA's Child Support Formula Works

Pennsylvania calculates support by looking at what you and the other parent earn each month after taxes. The court combines your net incomes to find a total support amount from a state chart, then splits that amount between you based on your share of the combined income.

Understanding Pennsylvania's Shared Custody Rules

When the non-primary parent has the children for at least 30% of the year (110 nights), they may receive a reduction in their support payment. This discount gradually increases as parenting time increases, reaching a maximum reduction once the parent has the children for 40% (146 nights) or more of the year.

Frequently Asked Questions About PA Child Support

At what age does child support end in PA?

In Pennsylvania, child support obligations typically continue until the child turns 18 years old or graduates from high school, whichever occurs later. There is no automatic obligation for support to continue through college.

How is child support calculated if one parent is unemployed in PA?

If a parent is voluntarily unemployed or underemployed, the court can assign them an 'earning capacity' based on their work history and qualifications. If the unemployment is involuntary, support may be calculated based on unemployment benefits or, in some cases, minimum wage.

How do I modify a child support order in PA?

You can request to modify a child support order by proving a 'material and substantial change in circumstances' since the last order was issued. This could include a significant job loss, a major increase or decrease in income, or a change in custody arrangements.

Does PA child support cover college expenses?

No, the court cannot order a parent to pay for college expenses as part of a child support order. However, parents can voluntarily create a separate, written, and legally binding agreement to contribute to a child's higher education costs.

How does PA handle health insurance and childcare costs?

The costs for the child's health insurance premiums and necessary work-related childcare are treated as additional expenses. These costs are added to the basic child support obligation and are typically divided between the parents in proportion to their respective incomes.