Pennsylvania Child Support Calculator (2026)
In Pennsylvania, child support is based on both parents' combined income and the number of children. The total is split between you based on how much each parent earns, and parenting time can change the amount. Use the free calculator below for an instant estimate.
Source: Pennsylvania Rule 1910.16-3
Calculate Your Pennsylvania Child Support
Free estimate — official Pennsylvania guidelines
Your income after taxes and required deductions
How Much Is Child Support in Pennsylvania?
If you make $60,000 a year in Pennsylvania, child support for 1 child is estimated at $843 per month ($10,116 per year). This assumes the other parent earns approximately $36,000/year. Actual amounts depend on both parents' incomes, custody time, and add-on expenses (child care, health insurance).
$1,000/week ($52,000/year): approximately $771/month for 1 child.
Pennsylvania Child Support Estimates by Income (2026)
| Annual Income | 1 Child | 2 Children | 3 Children |
|---|---|---|---|
| $40,000/yr | $644/mo | $962/mo | $1,141/mo |
| $50,000/yr | $748/mo | $1,106/mo | $1,297/mo |
| $60,000/yr | $843/mo | $1,250/mo | $1,469/mo |
| $70,000/yr | $931/mo | $1,366/mo | $1,587/mo |
| $80,000/yr | $1,034/mo | $1,513/mo | $1,755/mo |
| $100,000/yr | $1,224/mo | $1,785/mo | $2,063/mo |
| $120,000/yr | $1,393/mo | $2,058/mo | $2,413/mo |
Estimates assume the other parent earns 60% of your income. Actual amounts vary. Compare all states →
How Child Support Is Calculated in Pennsylvania
Factors That Affect Child Support in Pennsylvania
Technical details and legal basis
Pennsylvania uses the Income Shares model (Pennsylvania Rule 1910.16-3) to calculate child support. This model combines both parents' incomes to determine the total obligation, then divides it proportionally based on each parent's share.
Important Notes for Pennsylvania
- • Pennsylvania uses the Income Shares model based on both parents' combined monthly net incomes.
- • Net income is calculated by deducting federal, state, and local taxes, FICA, mandatory union dues, mandatory retirement contributions, and existing support obligations from gross income.
- • Pennsylvania updated its child support schedule effective January 1, 2026 (55 Pa.B. 5978). The 2026 schedule covers combined monthly net incomes from $1,500 to $30,000.
- • The Self-Support Reserve (SSR) is $1,255 per month. If the obligor's monthly net income is at or below the SSR, support may only be awarded after consideration of actual financial resources.
- • The court may deviate from the guidelines based on unusual needs and best interest of the child.
Example Calculation
Scenario: Parent A earns $5,000/month, Parent B earns $3,000/month, 2 children.
Step 1: Combined income: $8,000
Step 2: Parent A's share: $5,000 / $8,000 = 62.5%
Step 3: Look up basic obligation for $8,000 combined and 2 children.
Step 4: Multiply by Parent A's share (62.5%).
Adjustments for health insurance, child care, and parenting time may apply.
Key Facts: Child Support in Pennsylvania
- Pennsylvania uses the Income Shares model based on both parents' combined monthly net incomes.
- Net income is gross income minus taxes, FICA, mandatory union dues, retirement contributions, and existing support obligations.
- The basic obligation for 1 child ranges from approximately $346/month at $1,500 combined income to $3,608/month at $30,000 combined monthly net income (2026 schedule).
- Pennsylvania's schedule was updated effective January 1, 2026 (55 Pa.B. 5978).
- The Self-Support Reserve is $1,255 per month. A parenting time adjustment is available when the non-custodial parent has 40% or more of the overnights.
Pennsylvania Child Support FAQ
How is child support calculated in Pennsylvania?
What income is used for PA child support?
How much is child support for 1 kid in Pennsylvania?
Does shared custody reduce child support in PA?
About This Calculator
Uses the official Pennsylvania Rule 1910.16-3 (2026 guidelines). Last verified: 2026-05-31.
Disclaimer: Estimates only, not legal advice. Actual amounts are set by Pennsylvania courts. Full disclaimer.
Methodology: Income Shares model per Pennsylvania Rule 1910.16-3.