If you are paying or receiving child support in Pennsylvania, your monthly “number” was likely calculated using economic data that is now considered out-of-date. As of January 1, 2026, Pennsylvania has officially updated its Basic Child Support Schedule to reflect the rising costs of raising a child.
Pennsylvania law requires the support guidelines to be reviewed every four years. Due to the historic inflation experienced over the last several years, the 2026 schedule shows a noticeable increase in many areas.
Inflation Adjustment
Due to the shift in the cost of living, the “Basic Obligation” or the starting point for every child support calculation, has increased. For the average middle-income family, the basic support amount has increased by roughly 15% to 18%. This accounts for the rise in housing, food, and transportation costs since the last update in 2022.
New Protection for Low-Income Parents
The “Self-Support Reserve” which, is the amount of money the law assumes a parent needs to keep for their own basic survival, has been raised to $1,255.00 per month. This change is designed to ensure you can still afford your own living expenses such as rent and utilities while meeting your parental obligations.
Medical Expenses
In the past, certain expenses such as psychological therapy, psychiatric care, or orthodontic bills were not considered medical expenses and required a specific agreement or Court Order. These are now considered “reasonable medical expenses.” This means they are automatically shared between parents based on their income percentages once the $250.00 annual threshold is met.
This Change is Not Automatic
In Pennsylvania, the Court does not monitor the guidelines or update your Order for you. However, a change in the statewide guidelines is considered a “material and substantial change in circumstances.” This gives parents the standing the file for a modification. That is, until a new petition is filed and a new Order is entered, your old payment amount remains the same.
This change does not guarantee an Ordered child support payment to be lower or higher. The Court will reassess many factors such as current incomes, updated health insurance costs, and your current custody schedule. Before filing for a modification, it is vital to consult with an attorney to ensure a modification is actually in your best interest.
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