How is Child Support Calculated in PA?
A parent’s obligation to financially provide for their child exists whether or not the parents are married. If you are dealing with a child support case, the amount of support must cover the entirety of your child’s needs. Child support must cover a broad range of the child’s necessities, including food, shelter, clothing, and any costs related to the child’s educational, transportation, and healthcare needs. The amount and frequency, in most cases, are determined through a court order.
At Purdy Law Office, our child support attorneys understand the importance of reaching an equitable support amount. In an ever-changing legal landscape, our legal team is dedicated to assisting families, no matter what circumstances you are facing.
Pennsylvania’s Income Shares Model
Pennsylvania follows an income shares model, which is calculated based on each parent’s gross income, the combined monthly net income of both parents, and the number of children included in the support order. The combined monthly income is calculated by including all sources of income, minus any deductions.
The basic support amount is based on the expenses of a child or children in an intact family. Since the custodial parent (the parent the child lives with) directly contributes to the child’s needs, the noncustodial parent is responsible for paying support.
In Pennsylvania, the income shares model is based on the noncustodial parent retaining custody 30% of the time. The support amount will be adjusted if the noncustodial parent has the child for more time, with a reduction in support if the parent has the child for at least 40% of the time. Support will continue until the child turns 18 years old or completes high school (whichever is later). If your child has a severe disability, support may last longer.
Families Outside the Normal Income Limits
Pennsylvania’s child support schedule is based on the combined monthly net income of parents, up to a maximum of $30,000 per month. Above that amount, a specific formula is used to determine child support based on high-income charts. Since support is designed to allow the child to maintain the same standard of living, high-income earners generally pay significantly more support. However, each family is unique, meaning that a high-income calculation may exceed the child’s reasonable needs.
In situations where one parent is a low-income earner, the court will consider each parent’s income and living expenses before determining the amount to be awarded. As of the date, the state’s self-support reserve (SSR) amount is $1,063. This is the net minimum amount that one person needs to earn to meet their basic needs, as determined by the State and based on the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
If the regular support payment would cause the paying parent’s (obligor’s) monthly net income to drop below $1,063, then the court will re-evaluate based on the family’s overall financial situation. However, other exceptions may apply, making it crucial that you speak with a Harrisburg child support attorney to review your specific situation.
We Provide the Support Your Family Needs
Determining child support can be a daunting process. Understandably, we all want what is best for our child or children, but not at the expense of depriving ourselves of basic needs. When you work with our Harrisburg child support attorneys, you will have a knowledgeable professional seeking a balance between your child’s welfare and your financial security. If you have questions regarding Pennsylvania’s child support guidelines, feel free to contact Purdy Law Office online or by calling (717) 674-2885.