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Pennsylvania Child Support Calculator & Guidelines (2026)

Estimate Pennsylvania child support under Pa. R.C.P. 1910.16-3 — Income Shares model, current caps and percentages, with a step-by-step worked example.

Estimate Your Child Support

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Pennsylvania Child Support Rules at a Glance

Guideline model Income Shares
Income basis Net (after-tax) income
How it works Both parents’ incomes are combined, a basic obligation is taken from the state’s official schedule, and each parent pays in proportion to their share of combined income.
Caps & limits Schedule covers combined monthly net income $1,300-$30,000; above $30,000 the high-income formula of Rule 1910.16-3.1 applies (v1 caps at the $30,000 row)
Statute / rule Pa. R.C.P. 1910.16-3
Parameters verified 2026-07

Worked Example: $5,000 + $3,000 Income, Two Children

  1. Paying parent’s monthly income: $5,000 - other parent’s: $3,000 - two children, primary custody.
  2. Combined monthly income: $8,000 - basic obligation from the official Pa. R.C.P. 1910.16-3 schedule for two children: $2,122.
  3. Paying parent’s share of combined income: 62.5% - $2,122 x 62.5% = $1,326 per month.

Result: $1,326 per month

Pennsylvania Child Support FAQ

How is child support calculated in Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania uses the income shares model under Pa. R.C.P. 1910.16-3: both parents’ incomes are combined, a basic obligation is determined, and each parent is responsible for their proportional share. Both parents’ incomes are combined, a basic obligation is taken from the state’s official schedule, and each parent pays in proportion to their share of combined income.

Does Pennsylvania use gross or net income for child support?

Pennsylvania calculates support on net (after-tax) income as defined in Pa. R.C.P. 1910.16-3. Schedule covers combined monthly net income $1,300-$30,000; above $30,000 the high-income formula of Rule 1910.16-3.1 applies (v1 caps at the $30,000 row).

Can a Pennsylvania court order more or less than the guideline amount?

Yes. The guideline amount under Pa. R.C.P. 1910.16-3 is presumptive, not absolute - courts may deviate with written findings for factors like extraordinary medical or educational needs, other children supported, or very high income beyond the guideline range.

How do I apply for or modify child support in Pennsylvania?

Apply through the Pennsylvania child support agency or the family court in your county. Existing orders can be modified on a substantial change in circumstances - typically a significant income change, job loss, or a change in custody. The official calculator/worksheet is linked on this page (www.pacses.com).

Official Pennsylvania Resources

Related Calculators & States

About This Estimate

Estimate only — not legal advice. Based on Pennsylvania guidelines (Pa. R.C.P. 1910.16-3), last verified 2026-07. Courts may deviate. For an official figure use the official Pennsylvania calculator.