Pennsylvania Child Support Calculator
Estimate the guideline amount under Pennsylvania's Income Shares model (Pa. R.C.P. 1910.16). Based on the payor's estimated net monthly income — free, instant, no data stored.
Guideline Estimate
Pennsylvania uses the Income Shares model under Pa. R.C.P. 1910.16-1 through 1910.16-5. This simplified version applies the guideline percentage to the payor's estimated net monthly income (gross × 0.77), subject to the $30,000/month net income cap. Above the cap, support is discretionary. Actual orders consider both parents' incomes, custody, and add-on expenses.
How Pennsylvania calculates child support
Pennsylvania uses the Income Shares model under Pa. R.C.P. 1910.16-1 through 1910.16-5. The basic child support obligation is based on the parents' combined monthly net income and is divided between them in proportion to their incomes.
- Estimate the paying parent's net monthly income (gross × 0.77 in this simplified version; the full rule uses a detailed deduction schedule).
- Apply the guideline percentage for the number of children (17% for 1, up to 36% for 6).
- Support above the $30,000/month net income cap is discretionary and based on the child's reasonable needs.
Pennsylvania guideline percentages (of payor's net monthly income)
| Children | Guideline percentage |
|---|---|
| 1 | 17% |
| 2 | 25% |
| 3 | 29% |
| 4 | 31% |
| 5 | 34% |
| 6 | 36% |
What the full calculation includes
The official Pennsylvania calculation uses both parents' incomes (or imputed income), allocates the obligation proportionally, adds the child's share of health insurance premiums and unreimbursed medical expenses, and considers the custody arrangement. The $30,000/month net income cap applies to the basic schedule; amounts above it require a separate finding of the child's reasonable needs.
Frequently asked questions
Does Pennsylvania have an income cap? Yes. The support guidelines use a $30,000/month combined net income cap. Above that, the court sets support based on the child's reasonable needs rather than the guideline percentage.
How long does child support last in Pennsylvania? Generally until the child turns 18 or graduates from high school, whichever is later, unless the child is emancipated earlier or support is agreed to continue.
Can the amount be modified? Yes — upon a showing of a substantial and continuing change in circumstances.