Order Amending Rules 1910.11, 1910.16-1, 1910.16-2, 1910.16-3, 1910.16-3.1, 1910.16-4, 1910.16-6, 1910.18, and 1910.19 and Rescinding Rule 1910.16 of the PA Rules of Civil Procedure ( 2018 )

Rule 1910.11. Office Conference. Subsequent Proceedings. Order
[(a)(1) The office conference shall be conducted by a conference
officer.]
(a) Office Conference.
(1) A conference officer shall conduct the office conference.
(2) [Any]A lawyer serving as a conference officer employed by, or
under contract with, a judicial district or appointed by the court shall
not practice family law before a conference officer, hearing officer,
permanent or standing master, or judge of the same judicial district.
Note: Conference officers preside at office conferences under [Rule]Pa.R.C.P.
No. 1910.11. Hearing officers preside at hearings under [Rule]Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.12.
The appointment of masters to hear actions in divorce or for annulment of marriage is
authorized by [Rule]Pa.R.C.P. No. 1920.51.
(b) If [either]a party fails to appear at the conference[ before the officer] as
directed by the court, the conference may proceed.
[(c) At the conference, the parties shall furnish to the officer true copies
of their most recent federal income tax returns, their pay stubs for the preceding
six months, verification of child care expenses, and proof of medical coverage
that they may have or have available to them. In addition, the parties shall provide
copies of their Income Statements and Expense Statements in the forms required
by Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.27(c) and completed as set forth in (1) and (2) of this
subdivision.
Note: See Pa.R.C.P. No. 1930.1(b). To the extent this rule applies to
actions not governed by other legal authority regarding confidentiality of
information and documents in support actions or that attorneys or
unrepresented parties file support-related confidential information and
documents in non-support actions (e.g., divorce, custody), the Case Records
Public Access Policy of the Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania shall
apply.
(1) For cases which can be determined according to the guideline
formula, the Income Statement must be completed and the Expense
Statement at Rule 1910.27(c)(2)(A) should be completed if a party is
claiming unusual needs and unusual fixed expenses that may warrant a
deviation from the guideline amount of support pursuant to Rule 1910.16-5
or seeks apportionment of expenses pursuant to Rule. 1910.16-6. In a
support case that can be decided according to the guidelines, even if the
support claim is raised in a divorce complaint, no expense form is needed
unless a party claims unusual needs or unusual fixed expenses or seeks
apportionment of expenses pursuant to Rule 1910.16-6. However, in the
divorce action, the Expense Statement at Rule 1910.27(c)(2)(B) may be
required.
(2) For cases which are decided according to Rule 1910.16-3.1,
the Income Statement and the Expense Statement at Rule 1910.27(c)(2)(B)
must be submitted.]
(c) At the conference, the parties shall provide to the conference officer
the following documents:
• the most recently filed individual federal income tax returns,
including all schedules, W-2s, and 1099s;
• the partnership or business tax returns with all schedules,
including K-1, if the party is self-employed or a principal in a
partnership or business entity;
• pay stubs for the preceding six months;
• verification of child care expenses;
• child support, spousal support, alimony pendente lite, or
alimony orders or agreements for other children or former
spouses;
• proof of available medical coverage; and
• an Income Statement and, if necessary, an Expense Statement
on the forms provided in Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.27(c) and
completed as set forth in subdivisions (c)(1) and (2).
Note: See Pa.R.C.P. No. 1930.1(b). To the extent this rule applies to actions
not governed by other legal authority regarding confidentiality of information and
documents in support actions or that attorneys or unrepresented parties file
support-related confidential information and documents in non-support actions
(e.g., divorce, custody), the Case Records Public Access Policy of the Unified
Judicial System of Pennsylvania shall apply.
(1) The parties shall provide the conference officer with a
completed:
(i) Income Statement as set forth in Pa.R.C.P. No.
1910.27(c)(1) in all support cases, including high-income
cases under Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-3.1; and
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(ii) Expense Statement as set forth in Pa.R.C.P. No.
1910.27(c)(2)(A), if a party:
(A) claims that unusual needs and unusual fixed
expenses may warrant a deviation from the
guideline support amount pursuant to Pa.R.C.P.
No. 1910.16-5; or
(B) seeks expense apportionment pursuant to
Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-6.
(2) For high-income support cases as set forth in Pa.R.C.P. No.
1910.16-3.1, the parties shall provide to the conference officer
the Expense Statement in Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.27(c)(2)(B).
(d) Conference Officer Recommendation.
(1) The conference officer shall [make a recommendation to the
parties of an amount of support calculated in accordance with
the guidelines]calculate and recommend a guideline support
amount to the parties.
[(2) If an agreement for support is reached at the conference, the
officer shall prepare a written order substantially in the form set forth in
Rule 1910.27(e) and in conformity with the agreement for signature by the
parties and submission to the court together with the officer’s
recommendation for approval or disapproval. The court may enter the
order in accordance with the agreement without hearing the parties.]
(2) If the parties agree on a support amount at the conference, the
conference officer shall:
(i) prepare a written order consistent with the parties’
agreement and substantially in the form set forth in
Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.27(e), which the parties shall sign;
and
(ii) submit to the court the written order along with the
conference officer’s recommendation for approval or
disapproval.
(iii) The court may enter the order in accordance with the
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agreement without hearing from the parties.
***
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Rule 1910.16. Rescinded [Support Order. Allocation
(a) In an order awarding child support and spousal support or child
support and alimony pendente lite, the court may on its own motion or upon the
motion of either party:
(1) Make an unallocated award in favor of the spouse and one or
more children; or
(2) State the amount of support allocable to the spouse and the
amount allocable to each child.
Note: See 23 Pa.C.S. § 4348(d) for additional matters that must be specified
in an order of support if arrearages exist when the order is entered.
(b) An unallocated order for child support and spousal support or child
support and alimony pendente lite shall be a final order as to all claims covered in
the order. Motions for post-trial relief may not be filed to the final order.
Note: The procedure relating to Motions for Reconsideration is set forth in
Pa.R.C.P. No. 1930.2.]
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[Explanatory Comment — 1994
The decision to allocate a support order has federal income tax
consequences and an effect upon subsequent modification of an order.
Allocation of an order, as well as other factors, will determine which party pays
the federal income tax, and thus the actual cost of the support to the payor and
the amount of money available to the payee. Allocation of the order permits the
court to determine more easily whether modification of the order is warranted.
Explanatory Comment — 2018
Subdivision (b) resolves the question of the appealability of an unallocated
order and any other claims adjudicated in that order. The rule declares the orders
are final and appealable. Not only is the unallocated support order final and
appealable, so are the other claims covered in the order, irrespective of whether
those would be final and appealable had the claims not been a part of the order
awarding unallocated support.]
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Rule 1910.16-1. Amount of Support. Support Guidelines
***
(b) [Amount of ]Support Amount. The [amount of ]support amount (child
support, spousal support or alimony [pendente lite) to be]pendente lite) awarded
pursuant to the [procedures under Rules]Pa.R.C.P. Nos. 1910.11 and 1910.12 [shall]
procedures must be determined in accordance with the support guidelines, which
consist of the guidelines expressed as the child support schedule [set forth in Rule]in
Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-3, the [formula set forth in Rule]Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-4
formulas, and the operation of the guidelines as set forth in these rules.
(c) Spousal Support and Alimony Pendente Lite.
(1) [Orders for spousal support and alimony pendente lite
shall]Spousal support and alimony pendente lite orders must
not be in effect simultaneously.
(2) In determining [the duration of an award for spousal support or
alimony pendente lite, the trier of fact]a spousal support or
alimony pendente lite award’s duration, the trier-of-fact shall
consider the [duration of the marriage from]marriage’s
duration, i.e., the date of marriage to the date of final separation.
(d) Rebuttable Presumption. [If it has been determined that there is an
obligation to pay support, there shall be a rebuttable presumption that the
amount of the award determined from the guidelines is the correct amount of
support to be awarded. The support guidelines are a rebuttable presumption and
must be applied taking into consideration the special needs and obligations of
the parties. The trier of fact must consider the factors set forth in Rule 1910.16-5.
The presumption shall be rebutted if the trier of fact makes a written finding, or a
specific finding on the record, that an award in the amount determined from the
guidelines would be unjust or inappropriate.]If the trier-of-fact determines that a
party has a duty to pay support, there is a rebuttable presumption that the
guideline-calculated support amount is the correct support amount.
(1) The presumption is rebutted if the trier-of-fact concludes in a
written finding or states on the record that the guideline
support amount is unjust or inappropriate.
(2) The trier-of-fact shall consider the children’s and parties’
special needs and obligations, and apply the Pa.R.C.P. No.
7
1910.16-5 deviation factors, as appropriate.
(e) Guidelines Review. The guidelines [shall]must be reviewed at least
[once] every four years to [insure]ensure that [application results in the
determination of appropriate amounts of support]their application determines
appropriate support amounts.
***
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EXPLANATORY COMMENT — 2017
Pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.3(a), a person having custody of a child or
caring for a child may initiate a support action against the child’s parent(s). Previously,
this rule only addressed when a public body or private agency had custody of a child but
was silent with regard to an individual third party, e.g., grandparent, seeking support.
The rule has been amended by adding a new subdivision (a)(2) and renumbering the
previous (a)(2) to (a)(3). In addition, an example illustrating the new (a)(2) calculation
has been included.
Subdivision (a)(2) excludes the income of the third party/obligee, as that person
does not have a duty of support to the child; instead, the rule uses the combined
monthly net income of the parents to determine the basic child support amount, which is
then apportioned between the parents consistent with their respective percentage of the
combined monthly net income in the same manner as a parent vs. parent support
action. However, under this rule, each parent would be a separate obligor, would pay
the obligee their proportionate share under a separate support order, and would be
subject to separate enforcement proceedings. Under (a)(2), the exclusion of the third
party’s income is consistent with Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-2(b)(2)([B]ii) as that rule
relates to an action for support by a third party against a surviving parent in which the
child receives a Social Security derivative benefit due to the death of the other parent.
In accordance with Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-6(c), payment of the first $250 of
unreimbursed medical expenses per year per child is applicable to third party/obligees
in support actions governed by (a)(2). The first $250 of unreimbursed medical expenses
is built into the Basic Child Support Schedule.
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Rule 1910.16-2. Support Guidelines. Calculation of Monthly Net Income
Generally, the support amount [of support to be ]awarded is based [upon]on
the parties’ monthly net income.
(a) Monthly Gross Income. Monthly gross income is ordinarily based
[upon]on at least a six-month average of [all of ]a party’s income. The [term “income”
is defined by the ]support law, 23 Pa.C.S.[A.] § 4302, defines the term “income”
and includes income from any source. The statute lists many types of income including,
but not limited to:
(1) wages, salaries, bonuses, fees, and commissions;
(2) net income from business or dealings in property;
(3) interest, rents, royalties, and dividends;
(4) pensions and all forms of retirement;
(5) income from an interest in an estate or trust;
(6) Social Security disability benefits, Social Security retirement
benefits, temporary and permanent disability benefits, workers’
compensation, and unemployment compensation;
(7) alimony if, in the trier-of-fact’s discretion[ of the trier of fact],
inclusion of part or all of it is appropriate; and
Note: In determining the appropriateness of including alimony in gross
income, the trier-of-fact shall consider whether the party receiving the alimony
must include the amount received as gross income when filing his or her
federal income taxes. If the alimony is not includable in the party’s gross
income for federal income tax purposes, the trier-of-fact may include in the
party’s monthly net income the alimony received, as appropriate. See
Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-2(c)(2)(ii).
Since the reasons for ordering payment of alimony vary, the
appropriateness of including it in the recipient’s gross income must also vary. For
example, if the obligor is paying $1,000 per month in alimony for the express
purpose of financing the obligee’s college education, it would be inappropriate to
consider that alimony as income from which the obligee could provide child support.
However, if alimony is intended to finance the obligee’s general living expenses,
10
inclusion of the alimony as income is appropriate.
(8) other entitlements to money or lump sum awards, without regard to
source, including:
(i) lottery winnings;
(ii) income tax refunds;
(iii) insurance compensation or settlements;
(iv) awards and verdicts; and
(v) [any form of payment]payments due to and collectible by
an individual regardless of source.
Note: The [trial court has discretion to determine]trier-of-fact
determines the most appropriate method for imputing lump-sum awards as income
for purposes of establishing or modifying the party’s support obligation. These
awards may be annualized or [they may be] averaged over a shorter or longer
period[ of time] depending on the case’s circumstances[ of the case]. [They may
also be escrowed in an amount sufficient]The trier-of-fact may order all or part
of the lump sum award escrowed to secure the support obligation during that
period[ of time].
[Income tax refunds should not be included as income to the
extent they were already factored into the party’s actual tax obligation for
purposes of arriving at his or her net income.]The trier-of-fact shall not
include income tax refunds in a party’s income, if the trier-of-fact factored in
the tax refund when calculating the party’s actual tax obligation and monthly
net income.
(b) Treatment of Public Assistance, SSI Benefits, Social Security Payments to
a Child Due to a Parent’s Death, Disability or Retirement and Foster Care Payments.
(1) Public Assistance and SSI Benefits. Neither public assistance nor
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits shall be
[counted]included as income for [purposes of ]determining
support.
(2) Child’s Social Security Derivative Benefits[ for a Child].
11
[(A) This subdivision (A) shall be applied if a child for whom
support is sought is receiving Social Security derivative
benefits as a result of either parent’s retirement or disability.
(i) If a child for whom support is sought is receiving
Social Security benefits as a result of a parent’s
retirement or disability, the amount of the benefit shall
be added to the income of the party receiving the benefit
on behalf of the child to calculate child support. Next,
apportion the amount of basic child support set forth in
the schedule in Rule 1910.16-3 between the parties
based upon each party’s percentage share of their
combined net monthly income, including the child’s
benefit in the income of the party receiving it.
(ii) If the child’s benefit is being paid to the obligee,
the amount of the child’s benefit shall be deducted from
the basic support obligation of the party whose
retirement or disability created the child’s benefit. If the
child’s benefit is being paid to the obligor, the child’s
benefit shall not be deducted from the obligor’s
obligation, even if the obligor’s retirement or disability
created the child’s benefit. In cases of equally shared
custody, first determine which party has the higher
income without the benefit, and thus is the obligor,
before adding the child’s benefit to the income of the
party receiving it.
(iii) In cases in which the obligor is receiving the
child’s benefits, the domestic relations sections shall
provide the parties with two calculations theoretically
assigning the benefit to each household.
(iv) In allocating additional expenses pursuant to Rule
1910.16-6, the allocation shall be based upon the
parties’ incomes before the addition of the child’s
benefit to the income of the party receiving it.
(B) This subdivision (B) shall be applied when determining
the support obligation of a surviving parent when the child for
whom support is sought is receiving Social Security derivative
benefits as a result of the other parent’s death. The income of
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a non-parent obligee who is caring for a child but has no
support obligation to that child shall include only those funds
the obligee is receiving on behalf of the child, including the
Social Security derivative benefits if they are being paid to the
obligee. If the benefits are being paid to the surviving parent,
the amount of the benefit shall be added to that parent’s
income to calculate child support.]
(i) If a child is receiving Social Security derivative benefits
due to a parent’s retirement or disability:
(A) The trier-of-fact shall determine the basic child
support amount as follows:
(I) add the child’s benefit to the monthly net
income of the party who receives the
child’s benefit;
(II) calculate the parties’ combined monthly net
income, including the child’s benefit;
(III) determine the basic child support amount
set forth in the Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-3
schedule; and
(IV) apportion the basic child support amount
between the parties based on the party’s
percentage of the combined monthly net
income.
(B) If the obligee receives the child’s benefit, the trier-
of-fact shall deduct the child’s benefit from the
basic support obligation of the party whose
retirement or disability created the child’s benefit.
(C) If the obligor receives the child’s benefit, the trier-
of-fact shall not deduct the child’s benefit from
the obligor’s basic support obligation, even if the
obligor’s retirement or disability created the
child’s benefit. To illustrate for the parties the
impact of the obligor receiving the benefit instead
of the obligee, the domestic relations section
13
shall provide the parties with two calculations
theoretically assigning the benefit to each
household.
(D) The trier-of-fact shall allocate the additional
expenses in Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-6 based on the
parties’ monthly net incomes without considering
the child’s benefit.
(E) In equally shared custody cases, the party with
the higher monthly net income, excluding the
child’s benefit, is the obligor.
(ii) If a child is receiving Social Security derivative benefits
due to a parent’s death:
(A) The trier-of-fact shall determine the surviving
parent’s basic child support amount as follows:
(I) The non-parent obligee’s monthly net
income shall include only those funds the
obligee is receiving on the child’s behalf,
including the Social Security derivative
benefit.
(II) If the surviving-parent obligor receives the
Social Security derivative benefit, the
benefit shall be added to the parent’s
monthly net income to calculate child
support.
***
(c) Monthly Net Income.
(1) Unless [otherwise provided in]these rules provide otherwise,
the [court]trier-of-fact shall deduct only the following items from monthly gross income
to arrive at monthly net income:
([A]i) federal, state, and local income taxes;
([B]ii) unemployment compensation taxes and Local Services
14
Taxes (LST);
([C]iii) F.I.C.A. payments (Social Security, Medicare and
Self-Employment taxes) and non-voluntary retirement
payments;
([D]iv) mandatory union dues; and
([E]v) alimony paid to the other party.
(2) In computing a spousal support or alimony [pendente
lite]pendente lite obligation, the [court]trier-of-fact shall:
(i) deduct from the obligor’s monthly net income [all of his or
her child support obligations and any amounts of ]child
support, spousal support, alimony [pendente lite]pendente
lite, or alimony amounts [being] paid to children and
former spouses[.], who are not part of this action; and
(ii) include in a party’s monthly net income alimony
pendente lite or alimony received from a former spouse
that was not included in the party’s gross income, as
provided in subdivision (a).
Note: Since the reasons for ordering payment of alimony vary, the
appropriateness of including it in the recipient’s monthly net income must also
vary. For example, if the obligor is paying $1,000 per month in alimony for the
express purpose of financing the obligee’s college education, it would be
inappropriate to consider that alimony as income from which the obligee could
provide child support. However, if alimony is intended to finance the obligee’s
general living expenses, inclusion of the alimony as income is appropriate.
***
(e) Net Income Affecting Application of the Support Guidelines.
(1) Low-Income Cases.
([A]i) If the obligor’s monthly net income and corresponding
number of children fall into the shaded area of the schedule
set forth in Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-3, the basic child support
obligation shall be calculated initially by using the obligor’s
15
monthly net income only. For example, if the obligor has
monthly net income of $1,100, the presumptive [amount of]
support amount for three children is $110 per month. This
amount is determined directly from the schedule in
Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-3. Next, [calculate ]the obligor’s
child support obligation is calculated by using the parties’
combined monthly net incomes and the appropriate formula
in Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-4. The lower of the two calculated
amounts shall be the obligor’s basic child support obligation.
***
([B]ii) In computing a basic spousal support or alimony pendente
lite obligation, the presumptive [amount of ]support amount
shall not reduce the obligor’s monthly net income below the
Self-Support Reserve of $981 per month.
Example 2: If the obligor earns $1,000 per month and the obligee earns $300
per month, the formula in [Part IV of ]Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-4(a)(1)(Part B) would
result in a support obligation of $[280]213 per month ([$1,000 - $300 = $700 x
40%]($1,000 x 33%) or $333 minus ($300 x 40%) or $120 for a total of $213).
Since this amount leaves the obligor with only $[720]787 per month, it must be
adjusted so that the obligor retains at least $981 per month. The presumptive
minimum [amount of ]spousal support amount, therefore, is $19 per month in this
case.
([C]iii) [When]If the obligor’s monthly net income is $981 or
less, the [court]trier-of-fact may award support only after
consideration of the parties’ actual financial resources and
living expenses.
(2) High-Income Cases. [When]If the parties’ combined monthly
net income exceeds $30,000 per month, [calculation of ]child
support, spousal support, and alimony [pendente lite]pendente
lite calculations shall be pursuant to [Rule]Pa.R.C.P. No.
1910.16-3.1.
Note: See Hanrahan v. Bakker, 186 A.3d 958 (Pa. 2018)
(f) [Dependency Tax Exemption]Child Tax Credit. In order to
maximize the total income available to the parties and children, the [court]trier-of-fact
may[, as justice and fairness require, award the federal child dependency tax
16
exemption]award, as appropriate, the federal child tax credit to the non-custodial
parent, or to either parent in cases of equally shared custody, and order the other party
to execute the waiver required by the Internal Revenue Code, 26 U.S.C.[A.] § 152(e).
The tax consequences [resulting from an award of the child dependency
exemption]associated with the federal child tax credit must be considered in
calculating [each]the party’s monthly net income available for support.
[Explanatory Comment—2010
Subdivision (a) addresses gross income for purposes of calculating the
support obligation by reference to the statutory definition at 23 Pa.C.S.A. § 4322.
Subdivision (b) provides for the treatment of public assistance, SSI benefits,
Social Security derivative benefits and foster care payments.
Subdivision (c) sets forth the exclusive list of the deductions that may be
taken from gross income in arriving at a party’s net income. When the cost of
health insurance premiums is treated as an additional expense subject to
allocation between the parties under Rule 1910.16-6, it is not deductible from
gross income. However, part or all of the cost of health insurance premiums may
be deducted from the obligor’s gross income pursuant to Rule 1910.16-6(b) in
cases in which the obligor is paying the premiums and the obligee has no income
or minimal income. Subdivision (c) relates to awards of spousal support or
alimony pendente lite when there are multiple families. In these cases, a party’s
net income must be reduced to account for his or her child support obligations,
as well as any pre-existing spousal support, alimony pendente lite or alimony
obligations being paid to former spouses who are not the subject of the support
action.
Subdivision (d) has been amended to clarify the distinction between
voluntary and involuntary changes in income and the imputing of earning
capacity. Statutory provisions at 23 Pa.C.S.A. § 4322, as well as case law, are
clear that a support obligation is based upon the ability of a party to pay, and that
the concept of an earning capacity is intended to reflect a realistic, rather than a
theoretical, ability to pay support. Amendments to subdivision (d) are intended to
clarify when imposition of an earning capacity is appropriate.
Subdivision (e) has been amended to reflect the updated schedule in Rule
1910.16-3 and the increase in the Self-Support Reserve (‘‘SSR’’). The schedule
now applies to all cases in which the parties’ combined net monthly income is
$30,000 or less. The upper income limit of the prior schedule was only $20,000.
The amount of support at each income level of the schedule also has changed, so
the examples in Rule 1910.16-2 were revised to be consistent with the new
17
support amounts.
The SSR is intended to assure that obligors with low incomes retain
sufficient income to meet their basic needs and to maintain the incentive to
continue employment. When the obligor’s net monthly income or earning
capacity falls into the shaded area of the schedule, the basic child support
obligation can be derived directly from the schedule in Rule 1910.16-3. There is
no need to use the formula in Rule 1910.16-4 to calculate the obligor’s support
obligation because the SSR keeps the amount of the obligation the same
regardless of the obligee’s income. The obligee’s income may be a relevant
factor, however, in determining whether to deviate from the basic guideline
obligation pursuant to Rule 1910.16-5 and in considering whether to require the
obligor to contribute to any additional expenses under Rule 1910.16-6.
Since the schedule in Rule 1910.16-3 sets forth basic child support only,
subdivision (e)(1)(B) is necessary to reflect the operation of the SSR in spousal
support and alimony pendente lite cases. It adjusts the basic guideline obligation,
which would otherwise be calculated under the formula in Rule 1910.16-4, so that
the obligor’s income does not fall below the SSR amount in these cases.
Previously, the SSR required that the obligor retain at least $748 per month.
The SSR now requires that the obligor retain income of at least $867 per month,
an amount equal to the 2008 federal poverty level for one person. When the
obligor’s monthly net income is less than $867, subsection (e)(1)(C) provides that
the court must consider the parties’ actual living expenses before awarding
support. The guidelines assume that at this income level the obligor is barely able
to meet basic personal needs. In these cases, therefore, entry of a minimal order
may be appropriate. In some cases, it may not be appropriate to order support at
all.
The schedule at Rule 1910.16-3 sets forth the presumptive amount of basic
child support to be awarded. If the circumstances warrant, the court may deviate
from that amount under Rule 1910.16-5 and may also consider a party’s
contribution to additional expenses, which are typically added to the basic
amount of support under Rule 1910.16-6. If, for example, the obligor earns only
$900 per month but is living with his or her parents, or has remarried and is living
with a fully-employed spouse, the court may consider an upward deviation under
Rule 1910.16-5(b)(3) and/or may order the party to contribute to the additional
expenses under Rule 1910.16-6. Consistent with the goals of the SSR, however,
the court should ensure that the overall support obligation leaves the obligor with
sufficient income to meet basic personal needs and to maintain the incentive to
continue working so that support can be paid.
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Subdivision (e) also has been amended to eliminate the application
of Melzer v. Witsberger, 505 Pa. 462, 480 A.2d 991 (1984), in high income child
support cases. In cases in which the parties’ combined net monthly income
exceeds $30,000, child support will be calculated in accordance with the three-
step process in new rule 1910.16-3.1(a).
Explanatory Comment—2013
The SSR has been increased to $931, the 2012 federal poverty level for one
person. Subdivision (e) has been amended to require that when the obligor’s
income falls into the shaded area of the basic child support schedule in Rule
1910.16-3, two calculations must be performed. One calculation uses only the
obligor’s income and the other is a regular calculation using both parties’
incomes, awarding the lower amount to the obligee. The two step process is
intended to address those cases in which the obligor has minimal income and the
obligee’s income is substantially greater.
Explanatory Comment—2015
The rule has been amended to provide that a party’s support obligation will
be reduced by the amount of a child’s Social Security derivative benefit if that
party’s retirement or disability created the benefit and the benefit is being paid to
the household in which the child primarily resides or the obligee in cases of
equally shared custody. In most cases, payment of the benefit to the obligee’s
household will increase the resources available to the child and the parties. The
rule is intended to encourage parties to direct that the child’s benefits be paid to
the obligee.]
19
Explanatory Comment—2010
Subdivision (a) addresses gross income for purposes of calculating the
support obligation by reference to the statutory definition at 23 Pa.C.S. § 4322.
Subdivision (b) provides for the treatment of public assistance, SSI benefits,
Social Security derivative benefits, and foster care payments.
Subdivision (c) sets forth the exclusive list of the deductions that may be
taken from gross income in arriving at a party’s net income. When the cost of
health insurance premiums is treated as an additional expense subject to
allocation between the parties under Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-6, it is not deductible
from gross income. However, part or all of the cost of health insurance premiums
may be deducted from the obligor’s gross income pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. No.
1910.16-6(b) in cases in which the obligor is paying the premiums and the obligee
has no income or minimal income. Subdivision (c) relates to spousal support or
alimony pendente lite awards when there are multiple families. In these cases, a
party’s monthly net income must be reduced to account for his or her child
support obligations, as well as any pre-existing spousal support, alimony
pendente lite or alimony obligations being paid to former spouses who are not
the subject of the support action.
Subdivision (d) has been amended to clarify the distinction between
voluntary and involuntary changes in income and the imputing of earning
capacity. Statutory provisions at 23 Pa.C.S. § 4322, as well as case law, are clear
that a support obligation is based upon the ability of a party to pay, and that the
concept of an earning capacity is intended to reflect a realistic, rather than a
theoretical, ability to pay support. Amendments to subdivision (d) are intended to
clarify when imposition of an earning capacity is appropriate.
Subdivision (e) has been amended to reflect the updated schedule in
Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-3 and the increase in the Self-Support Reserve (‘‘SSR’’).
The schedule now applies to all cases in which the parties’ combined monthly net
income is $30,000 or less. The upper income limit of the prior schedule was only
$20,000. The support amount at each income level of the schedule also has
changed, so the examples in Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-2 were revised to be
consistent with the new support amounts.
The SSR is intended to assure that obligors with low incomes retain
sufficient income to meet their basic needs and to maintain the incentive to
continue employment. When the obligor’s monthly net income or earning
capacity falls into the shaded area of the schedule, the basic child support
obligation can be derived directly from the schedule in Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-3.
20
There is no need to use the formula in Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-4 to calculate the
obligor’s support obligation because the SSR keeps the amount of the obligation
the same regardless of the obligee’s income. The obligee’s income may be a
relevant factor, however, in determining whether to deviate from the basic
guideline obligation pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-5 and in considering
whether to require the obligor to contribute to any additional expenses under
Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-6.
Since the schedule in Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-3 sets forth basic child support
only, subdivision (e)(1)(ii) is necessary to reflect the operation of the SSR in
spousal support and alimony pendente lite cases. It adjusts the basic guideline
obligation, which would otherwise be calculated under the formula in Pa.R.C.P.
No. 1910.16-4, so that the obligor’s income does not fall below the SSR amount in
these cases.
Previously, the SSR required that the obligor retain at least $748 per month.
The SSR now requires that the obligor retain income of at least $867 per month,
an amount equal to the 2008 federal poverty level for one person. When the
obligor’s monthly net income is less than $867, subdivision (e)(1)(iii) provides
that the trier-of-fact must consider the parties’ actual living expenses before
awarding support. The guidelines assume that at this income level the obligor is
barely able to meet basic personal needs. In these cases, therefore, entry of a
minimal order may be appropriate. In some cases, it may not be appropriate to
order support at all.
The schedule at Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-3 sets forth the presumptive amount
of basic child support to be awarded. If the circumstances warrant, the trier-of-
fact may deviate from that amount under Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-5 and may also
consider a party’s contribution to additional expenses, which are typically added
to the basic amount of support under Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-6. If, for example, the
obligor earns only $900 per month but is living with his or her parents, or has
remarried and is living with a fully-employed spouse, the trier-of-fact may
consider an upward deviation under Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-5(b)(3) or may order
the party to contribute to the additional expenses under Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-6.
Consistent with the goals of the SSR, however, the trier-of-fact should ensure that
the overall support obligation leaves the obligor with sufficient income to meet
basic personal needs and to maintain the incentive to continue working so that
support can be paid.
Subdivision (e) also has been amended to eliminate the application
of Melzer v. Witsberger, 480 A.2d 991 (Pa. 1984), in high-income child support
cases. In cases in which the parties’ combined net monthly income exceeds
21
$30,000, child support will be calculated in accordance with the three-step
process in Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-3.1(a).
Explanatory Comment—2013
The SSR has been increased to $931, the 2012 federal poverty level for one
person. Subdivision (e) has been amended to require that when the obligor’s
income falls into the shaded area of the basic child support schedule in Pa.R.C.P.
No. 1910.16-3, two calculations must be performed. One calculation uses only the
obligor’s income and the other is a regular calculation using both parties’
incomes, awarding the lower amount to the obligee. The two-step process is
intended to address those cases in which the obligor has minimal income and the
obligee’s income is substantially greater.
Explanatory Comment—2015
The rule has been amended to provide that a party’s support obligation will
be reduced by the child’s Social Security derivative benefit amount if that party’s
retirement or disability created the benefit and the benefit is being paid to the
household in which the child primarily resides or the obligee in cases of equally
shared custody. In most cases, payment of the benefit to the obligee’s household
will increase the resources available to the child and the parties. The rule is
intended to encourage parties to direct that the child’s benefits be paid to the
obligee.
22
Rule 1910.16-3. Support Guidelines. Basic Child Support Schedule.
The following schedule represents the amounts spent on children of intact
families by combined monthly net income and number of children. Combined monthly
net income is on the schedule’s vertical axis [of the schedule] and the number of
children is on the schedule’s horizontal axis [of the schedule]. This schedule [is
used to find]determines the basic child support obligation. Unless [otherwise
provided in these rules]these rules provide otherwise, the obligor’s share of the
basic support obligation shall be computed using either the formula set forth in [Part I
of ] Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-4(a)(1)(Part C) or (2)(Part I).
***
23
Rule 1910.16-3.1. Support Guidelines. High-Income Cases
(a) Child Support Formula. If the parties’ combined monthly net income
exceeds $30,000, the following three-step process shall be applied to calculate the
parties’ respective child support obligations. The [amount of] support amount
calculated pursuant to this three-step process shall not be less than the [amount of]
support amount that would have been awarded if the parties’ combined monthly net
income was $30,000. The calculated amount [shall be]is the presumptive minimum
[amount of] support amount.
(1) [First, the]The following formula shall be applied as a preliminary
analysis in calculating the [amount of] basic child support amount [to be] apportioned
between the parties according to their respective monthly net incomes:
One child: $2,839 + 8.6% of combined monthly net income above $30,000.
Two children: $3,902 + 11.8% of combined monthly net income above $30,000.
Three children: $4,365 + 12.9% of combined monthly net income above $30,000.
Four children: $4,824 + 14.6% of combined monthly net income above $30,000.
Five children: $5,306 + 16.1% of combined monthly net income above $30,000.
Six children: $5,768 + 17.5% of combined monthly net income above $30,000;
(2) [And second, the trier of fact]The trier-of-fact shall apply [Part II
and Part III of the formula at Rule 1910.16-4(a), making any applicable
adjustments]the formulas in Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-4(a)(1)(Part D) and (Part E) or
(2)(Part II) and (Part III), adjusting for substantial or shared custody pursuant to
[Rule]Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-4(c) and [allocations of]allocating additional expenses
pursuant to [Rule]Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-6, as appropriate;
(3) [Then, third, the trier of fact]The trier-of-fact shall consider the
factors in [Rule]Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-5 in making a final child support award and
shall make findings of fact on the record or in writing. After considering [all of] the
factors in [Rule]Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-5, the [trier of fact]trier-of-fact may adjust the
amount calculated pursuant to subdivisions (1) and (2)[ above upward or downward],
subject to the presumptive minimum.
(b) Spousal Support and Alimony Pendente Lite. In cases in which the parties’
combined monthly net income exceeds $30,000, the [trier of fact]trier-of-fact shall
24
apply the formula in [Part IV of Rule]either Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-4(a)(1)(Part B) or
(2)(Part IV) as a preliminary analysis in calculating spousal support or alimony
[pendente lite]pendente lite. In determining [the amount and duration of] the final
spousal support or alimony [pendente lite award]pendente lite amount and duration,
the [trier of fact]trier-of-fact shall consider the factors in [Rule]Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-
5 and shall make findings of fact on the record or in writing.
[Explanatory Comment — 2010
New Rule 1910.16-3.1 is intended to bring all child support cases under the
guidelines and treat similarly situated parties similarly. Thus, high income child
support cases no longer will be decided pursuant to Melzer v. Witsberger, 505 Pa.
462, 480 A.2d 991 (1984). Economic data support the amounts in the basic child
support schedule up to combined net incomes of $30,000 per month. Above that
amount, economic data are not readily available. Thus, for cases in which the
parties’ combined net monthly income is above $30,000, the formula first applies
a fixed percentage to calculate the amount of support. The formula is an
extrapolation of the available economic data to higher income cases. Spousal
support and alimony pendente lite awards in high income cases are preliminarily
calculated pursuant to the formula in Part IV of Rule 1910.16-4(a). However, in
both high income child support and spousal support/alimony pendente lite cases,
the trier of fact is required to consider the factors in Rule 1910.16-5 before
entering a final order and to make findings of fact on the record or in writing.
Pursuant to Rule 1910.11(c)(2), in all high income cases, the parties must submit
an Income Statement and the Expense Statement at Rule 1910.27(c)(2)(B) to
enable the trier of fact to consider the factors in Rule 1910.16-5.
Explanatory Comment — 2011
The rule has been amended to clarify that the provisions of Rule 1910.16-
4(c), regarding adjustments to support when the obligor has substantial or
shared custody, apply in high income cases. Previously, when high income cases
were decided pursuant to Melzer v. Witsberger, 505 Pa. 462, 480 A.2d 991 (1984),
case law held that because the time and resources each parent provided to a
child were factored into the Melzer formula, the reductions for substantial or
shared parenting time did not apply to cases decided pursuant to Melzer. See,
e.g., Sirio v. Sirio, 951 A.2d 1188 (Pa. Super. 2008), Bulgarelli v. Bulgarelli, 934
A.2d 107 (Pa. Super. 2007). As Melzer no longer applies to calculate support in
high income cases, the prohibition against reductions for substantial or shared
parenting time in such cases is no longer applicable.]
25
Explanatory Comment — 2010
Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-3.1 is intended to bring all child support cases under
the guidelines and treat similarly situated parties similarly. Thus, high-income
child support cases no longer will be decided pursuant to Melzer v. Witsberger,
480 A.2d 991 (Pa. 1984). Economic data support the basic child support schedule
up to combined net incomes of $30,000 per month. Above that amount, economic
data are not readily available. Thus, for cases in which the parties’ combined
monthly net income is above $30,000, the formula first applies a fixed percentage
to calculate the support amount. The formula is an extrapolation of the available
economic data to high-income cases. Spousal support and alimony pendente lite
awards in high-income cases are preliminarily calculated pursuant to the
formulas in either Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-4(a)(1)(Part B) or (2)(Part IV). However, in
both high-income child support and spousal support and high-income child
support and alimony pendente lite cases, the trier-of-fact is required to consider
the factors in Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-5 before entering a final order and to make
findings of fact on the record or in writing. Pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. No.
1910.11(c)(2), in all high-income cases, the parties must submit an Income
Statement and the Expense Statement at Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.27(c)(2)(B) to enable
the trier-of-fact to consider the factors in Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-5.
Explanatory Comment — 2011
The rule has been amended to clarify that the provisions of Pa.R.C.P. No.
1910.16-4(c), regarding support adjustments if the obligor has substantial or
shared custody, apply in high-income cases. Previously, when high-income
cases were decided pursuant to Melzer v. Witsberger, 480 A.2d 991 (Pa. 1984),
case law held that because the time and resources each parent provided to a
child were factored into the Melzer formula, the substantial or shared parenting
time reductions did not apply to cases decided pursuant to Melzer. See, e.g., Sirio
v. Sirio, 951 A.2d 1188 (Pa. Super. 2008); Bulgarelli v. Bulgarelli, 934 A.2d 107 (Pa.
Super. 2007). As Melzer no longer applies to calculate support in high-income
cases, the prohibition against substantial or shared parenting time reductions in
such cases is no longer applicable.
26
Rule 1910.16-4. Support Guidelines. Calculation of Support Obligation, Formula
(a) The [following formula shall be used]trier-of-fact shall use either the
subdivision (1) or subdivision (2) formula to calculate the obligor’s share of basic
child support, either from the schedule in [Rule]Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-3 or the formula
in [Rule]Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-3.1(a), as well as spousal support and alimony
[pendente lite]pendente lite obligations. In high-income cases, [Part IV shall be
used]the trier-of-fact shall use either the subdivision (1)(Part B) or subdivision
(2)(Part IV) formula, as appropriate, as a preliminary analysis in the calculation of
spousal support or alimony [pendente lite]pendente lite obligations[:].
— The following rule text is being added —
(1) The formula in Parts A through E is for an order entered on or after
January 1, 2019, or for a modification of an order entered before
January 1, 2019 that includes spousal support or alimony pendente
lite in which the amendments to the Internal Revenue Code made
by Section 11051 of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (Pub. L.
No. 115-97) expressly apply.
Note: Section 11051 of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (Pub. L. No. 115-97)
amended the Internal Revenue Code by repealing the alimony deduction — the amount
of spousal support, alimony pendente lite, and alimony paid or received — from the
payor’s gross income and the alimony inclusion into the payee’s gross income.
See subdivision (2) for a modification of an order entered before January
1, 2019 that includes spousal support or alimony pendente lite in which the
amendments to the Internal Revenue Code made by Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017
(Pub. L. No. 115-97) do not apply to the modification.
PART A. CALCULATION OF MONTHLY NET INCOME
OBLIGOR OBLIGEE
1. Total Gross Income per pay period
(See Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-2(a))
2. Deductions ( ) ( )
(See Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-2(c))
3. Net Income
27
(line 1 minus line 2)
4. Conversion to Monthly Net Income
(if pay period is other than monthly)
PART B. SPOUSAL SUPPORT OR ALIMONY PENDENTE LITE
Without With
Dependent Dependent
Children Children
5. Obligor’s Monthly Net Income
(line 4)
6. Obligor’s child support, ( ) ( )
spousal support, alimony pendente
lite or alimony obligations to children
or former spouses who are not part
of this action, if any.
(See Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-2(c)(2))
7. Obligor’s Net Income available
for spousal support or
alimony pendente lite
(line 5 minus line 6)
8. Obligor’s Net Income percentage x 33% x 25%
for spousal support or alimony
pendente lite
9. Obligor’s proportionate share of
spousal support or alimony
pendente lite
(line 7 multiplied by line 8)
10. Obligee’s Monthly Net Income
(line 4)
11. Obligee’s Net Income percentage x 40% x 30%
for spousal support or alimony
pendente lite
28
12. Obligee’s proportionate share of
spousal support or alimony
pendente lite
(line 10 multiplied by line 11)
13. Preliminary Monthly Spousal Support or
Alimony Pendente Lite amount
(line 9 minus line 12 - if the result is
less than zero, enter a zero on line 13)
14. Adjustments for Part E Additional Expenses
(See Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-6)
15. Total Monthly Spousal Support
or Alimony Pendente Lite Amount
(line 13 plus or minus line 14, as
appropriate)
PART C - BASIC CHILD SUPPORT
OBLIGOR OBLIGEE
16. Monthly Net Income
(line 4 and add the child’s monthly
Social Security Disability or
Retirement Derivative benefit
amount, if any, to the Monthly Net
Income of the party receiving the
benefit pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. No.
1910.16-2(b)(2)(i) or (ii).
17. Preliminary Monthly Spousal Support ( ) +
or Alimony Pendente Lite amount,
if any.
(line 13)
18. Adjusted Monthly Net Income
(for obligor, line 16 minus line 17;
for obligee, line 16 plus line 17)
29
19. Combined Monthly Net Income
(obligor’s line 18 plus obligee’s line 18)
20. Basic Child Support Obligation
(determined from child support schedules
in Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-3 based on the
number of children and line 19)
21. Net Income expressed as a % %
percentage of Combined
Monthly Net Income
(line 18 divided by line 19
and multiplied by 100)
22. Preliminary Monthly Basic Child
Support Obligation
(line 20 multiplied by line 21)
23. Child’s Social Security Derivative
Disability or Retirement Benefit.
(if the benefits are paid to the obligee,
enter the benefit amount on the line for
the party whose retirement or disability
created the child’s benefit pursuant to
Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-2(b))
24. Adjusted Monthly Basic Child
Support Obligation
(line 22 minus line 23 - if the result is
less than zero, enter a zero on line 24)
PART D. SUBSTANTIAL OR SHARED PHYSICAL CUSTODY ADJUSTMENT, IF
APPLICABLE (See subdivision (c))
25. a. Percentage of time obligor spends %
with children (divide number of overnights
with the obligor by 365 and multiply by 100)
b. Subtract 30% ( 30%)
c. Difference %
30
(line 25a minus line 25b)
d. Obligor’s Adjusted Percentage Share %
of the Basic Monthly Support Obligation
(line 21 minus line 25c)
e. Obligor’s Preliminary Adjusted
Basic Monthly Support Obligation
(line 20 multiplied by line 25d)
f. Further adjustment, if necessary under
subdivision (c)(2)
g. Obligor’s Adjusted Basic Child
Support Amount
PART E. ADDITIONAL EXPENSES (See Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-6)
26. a. Obligor’s Share of Child Care Expenses
b. Obligor’s Share of Health Insurance
Premium (if the obligee is paying the premium)
c. Obligee’s Share of the Health Insurance ( )
Premium (if the obligor is paying the premium)
d. Obligor’s Share of Unreimbursed Medical
Expenses
e. Other Additional Expenses
f. Total Additional Expenses
(add lines 26a, b, d, and e, then subtract
line 26c)
27. Obligor’s Total Monthly Support Obligation
(line 24 or 25g plus line 26f, if applicable)
(2) The formula in Parts I through IV is for a modification of an order
entered before January 1, 2019 that includes spousal support or
31
alimony pendente lite.
Note: See subdivision (1) for an order entered on or after January 1, 2019, or for
a modification of an order entered before January 1, 2019 that includes spousal support
or alimony pendente lite in which the amendments to the Internal Revenue Code made
by Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (Pub. L. No. 115-97) expressly apply to the
modification.
— The preceding rule text is being added —
PART I. BASIC CHILD SUPPORT
OBLIGOR OBLIGEE
1. Total Gross Income Per Pay Period
(See Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-2(a))
2. [Less ]Deductions ( ) ( )
(See Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-2(c))
3. Net Income
(line 1 minus line 2)
4. Conversion to Monthly Amount
(if pay period is other than monthly)
Include [amount of]the child’s monthly
Social Security derivative benefit amount,
if any, in the [income of the party receiving
it]monthly net income of the party
receiving the benefit pursuant to
[Rule]Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-2(b)(2)([A]i)
or ([B]ii).
5. Combined Total Monthly Net Income
(obligor’s line 4 plus obligee’s line 4)
6. [BASIC CHILD SUPPORT OBLIGATION]
Basic Child Support Obligation
(determined from schedule at
[Rule]Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-3 based on
number of children and line 5 [combined
monthly net income])
32
7. Net Income Expressed as a Percentage
Share of Income (divide line 4 by line
5 and multiply by 100) % %
8. Each Party's Preliminary Monthly Share
of the Basic Child Support Obligation
(multiply line 6 and 7)
9. [Subtract ]Child’s Social Security Derivative
Disability or Retirement Benefit[ from the
Monthly Share of Basic Child Support
of the Party whose Retirement or Disability
Created the Child’s Benefits if the Benefits
are Paid to the Obligee]
(if the benefits are paid to the obligee, enter
the benefit amount on the line for the party
whose retirement or disability created the
child’s benefit)
10. Each Party’s Adjusted Monthly Share of
the Basic Child Support Obligation [(Not less
than 0)](line 8 minus line 9 - if the result is
less than zero, enter a zero on line 10)
PART II. SUBSTANTIAL OR SHARED PHYSICAL CUSTODY ADJUSTMENT, IF
APPLICABLE ([See]See subdivision (c)[ of this rule])
11. a. Percentage of Time Obligor Spends
with Children (divide number of overnights
with the obligor by 365 and multiply by 100) %
b. Subtract 30% ( %)
c. Obligor’s Adjusted Percentage Share
of the Basic Monthly Support Obligation
(subtract result of calculation in line 11b
from line 7) %
33
d. Obligor’s Preliminary Adjusted Share of
the Basic Monthly Support Obligation
(multiply line 11c and line 6)
e. Further adjustment, if necessary under
subdivision (c)(2)[ of this rule]
f. Obligor’s Adjusted Share of the Basic
Child Support Amount
(Total of line 11d and line 11e)
PART III. ADDITIONAL EXPENSES ([see Rule]See Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-6)
12. a. Obligor’s Share of Child Care Expenses
b. Obligor’s Share of Health Insurance
Premium (if the obligee is paying the premium)
c. [Less ]Obligee’s Share of the Health Insurance
Premium (if the obligor is paying the premium) ( )
d. Obligor’s Share of Unreimbursed Medical
Expenses
e. Other Additional Expenses
f. Total Additional Expenses
(add lines 12a, b, d, and e, then subtract line 12c)
13. Obligor’s Total Monthly Support Obligation
(add line 10 or 11f[, if applicable,] and line 12f, if applicable)
PART IV. SPOUSAL SUPPORT OR APL with dependent children
14. Obligor’s Monthly Net Income (line 4)
15. [Less ]Obligor’s Support, Alimony [Pendente
Lite]Pendente Lite or Alimony Obligations,
[if any, ]to Children or Former Spouses who
are not part of this action, if any ([see Rule]
See Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-2(c)(2)) ( )
34
16. [Less ]Obligee’s Monthly Net Income (line 4) ( )
17. Difference
(line 14 minus lines 15 and 16)
18. [Less ]Obligor’s Total Monthly Child
Support Obligation [Without]without Part II Substantial
or Shared Custody Adjustment, if any
(Obligor’s line 10 plus line 12f) ( )
19. Difference
(line 17 minus line 18)
20. Multiply by 30% x [.]30%
21. [AMOUNT OF MONTHLY SPOUSAL SUPPORT
or APL]Monthly Spousal Support or APL Amount
(line 19 multiplied by line 20)
Without Dependent Children
22. Obligor’s Monthly Net Income (line 4)
23. [Less ]Obligor’s Support, Alimony [Pendente
Lite]Pendente Lite or Alimony Obligations[, if any,]
to Children or Former Spouses who are not part of
this action, if any ([see Rule]Pa.R.C.P. No.
1910.16-2(c)(2)) ( )
24. [Less ]Obligee’s Monthly Net Income (line 4) ( )
25. Difference
(line 22 minus lines 23 and 24)
26. Multiply by 40% x [.]40%
27. [PRELIMINARY AMOUNT OF MONTHLY SPOUSAL
SUPPORT OR APL]
Preliminary Monthly Spousal Support
or APL amount
(line 25 multiplied by line 26)
35
28. Adjustments for Other Expenses ([see Rule]
See Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-6)
(line 12f)
29. [TOTAL AMOUNT OF MONTHLY SPOUSAL
SUPPORT OR APL]
Total Monthly Spousal Support or
APL amount
(line 27 plus or minus line 28, as appropriate)
***
(e) Support Obligations When Custodial Parent Owes Spousal Support.
[Where]If children are residing with the spouse (custodial parent) obligated to pay
spousal support or alimony [pendente lite (custodial parent)]pendente lite and the
other spouse (non-custodial parent) has a legal obligation to support the children, the
guideline [amount of] spousal support or alimony [pendente lite shall be]pendente
lite amount is determined by offsetting the non-custodial parent’s child support
amount [obligation for support of the children] and the custodial parent’s
[obligation of ]spousal support or alimony [pendente lite]pendente lite amount, and
awarding the net difference either to the non-custodial parent as spousal
support/alimony [pendente lite]pendente lite or to the custodial parent as child support
as the circumstances warrant. The calculation is a five-step process:
[The calculation is a five-step process. First, determine the spousal
support obligation of the custodial parent to the non-custodial parent based upon
their net incomes from the formula for spousal support without dependent
children. Second, recalculate the net income of the parties assuming the
payment of the spousal support. Third, determine the child support obligation of
the non-custodial parent for the children who are the subjects of the support
action. Fourth, determine the recomputed support obligation of the custodial
parent to the non-custodial parent by subtracting the non-custodial parent’s child
support obligation from Step 3 from the original support obligation determined in
Step 1. Fifth, because the first step creates additional tax liability for the recipient
non-custodial parent and additional tax deductions for the payor custodial parent
and the third step involves an offset of the child support owed by the non-
custodial parent against the spousal support or alimony pendente lite owed by
the custodial parent, only that reduced amount will be taxable. Therefore, upon
application of either party, the trier of fact may consider as a deviation factor the
ultimate tax effect of the calculation.]
(1) Calculate the custodial parent’s spousal support or alimony
36
pendente lite obligation to the non-custodial parent based on
the parties’ monthly net incomes using the “without
dependent children” formula in either Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-
4(a)(1)(Part B) or (2)(Part IV), as appropriate.
(2) Recalculate the parties’ monthly net incomes by adjusting for
the spousal support or alimony pendente lite payment paid or
received in (1).
(3) Using the recomputed monthly net incomes from (2), calculate
the non-custodial parent’s child support obligation to the
custodial parent.
(4) The final support amount is the difference calculated in (1) and
(3).
(i) If the amount in (1) is greater than the amount in (3), the
final amount is spousal support or alimony pendente lite
payable to the non-custodial parent.
(ii) If the amount in (1) is less than the amount in (3), the
final amount is child support payable to the custodial
parent.
(5) If the proceeding is a modification of an order entered before
January 1, 2019 that has federal tax consequences associated
with spousal support or alimony pendente lite payments and
the final order is spousal support or alimony pendente lite as
in (4)(i), the offset spousal support or alimony pendente lite
amount is federally taxable, and the trier-of-fact may deviate
the final order due to the tax effect, as appropriate.
Note: See Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-4.
[(f) Allocation. Consequences.
(1) An order awarding child support and spousal support or child
support and alimony pendente lite may be unallocated or may state the amount of
support allocable to the spouse and the amount allocable to each child. The
order shall clearly state whether it is allocated or unallocated even if the amounts
calculated for child support and spousal support or child support and alimony
pendente lite are delineated in the order. However, Part IV of the formula
37
provided by these rules assumes that an order will be unallocated. Therefore, if
the order is allocated, the formula set forth in this rule shall be utilized to
determine the amount of support allocable to the spouse. If the allocation of an
order utilizing the formula would be inequitable, the court shall make an
appropriate adjustment. Also, if an order is allocated, an adjustment shall be
made to the award giving consideration to the federal income tax consequences
of an allocated order as may be appropriate under the circumstances. The
federal income tax consequences shall not be considered if the order is
unallocated or the order is for spousal support or alimony pendente lite only.
Note: The 2005 amendment supersedes Diament v. Diament, 816 A.2d 256(Pa. Super. 2003), to the extent that it held that the tax savings from payments for
the benefit of a spouse alone or from an unallocated order for the benefit of a
spouse and child must be considered in determining the obligor’s available net
income for support purposes. Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-4(f)(1) states that the
guidelines formula assumes that the order will be unallocated. The tax
consequences of an order for a spouse alone or an unallocated order for the
benefit of a spouse and child have already been built into the formula.
(2) When the parties are in higher income brackets, the income
tax considerations are likely to be a more significant factor in determining an
award of support. A support award for a spouse and children is taxable to the
obligee while an award for the children only is not. Consequently, in certain
situations, an award only for the children will be more favorable to the obligee
than an award to the spouse and children. In this situation, the trier of fact
should utilize the method that results in the greatest benefit to the obligee.
If the obligee’s net income is equal to or greater than the obligor’s net
income, the guideline amount for spouse and children is identical to the guideline
amount for children only. Therefore, in cases involving support for spouse and
children, whenever the obligee’s net income is equal to or greater than the
obligor’s net income, the guideline amount indicated shall be attributed to child
support only.
(3) Unallocated charging orders for child support and spousal
support or child support and alimony pendente lite shall terminate upon the death
of the obligee.
(4) In the event that the obligor defaults on an unallocated order,
the court shall allocate the order for collection of child support pursuant to the
Internal Revenue Service income tax refund intercept program or for registration
and enforcement of the order in another jurisdiction under the Uniform Interstate
38
Family Support Act, 23 Pa.C.S. §§ 7101 et seq. The court shall provide notice of
allocation to the parties.
Note: This provision is necessary to comply with various state and federal
laws relating to the enforcement of child support. It is not intended to affect the
tax consequences of an unallocated order.]
39
Explanatory Comment - 2005
***
[Subdivision (f) states that the guidelines continue to presume that the
order will be unallocated for tax purposes. However, language has been added to
subdivision (f)(1), and a new Note has been inserted, to clarify that an obligor’s
tax savings from payment of a spousal support order or an unallocated order for
a spouse and child should not be considered in calculating the obligor’s available
net income for support purposes. Subdivision (3) is intended to ensure alimony
tax treatment of unallocated orders pursuant to § 71 of the Internal Revenue
Code. Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.19(d) provides that all spousal support and alimony
pendente lite orders terminate upon the death of the obligee. Termination of a
charging order does not affect arrears existing at that time. Subdivision (4)
provides for administrative allocation of the order in two instances: 1) when the
obligor defaults on the order and it becomes necessary to collect support by
intercepting any income tax refunds that may be due and payable to obligor; and
2) when the obligor defaults and the order must be registered in another state
under the Uniform Interstate Family Support Act (UIFSA). As the Note indicates,
this administrative allocation is not intended to affect the tax consequences of
the unallocated order.]
***
[Explanatory Comment—2018
The allocation of a support order is of great significance to the parties. The
issue of allocation may arise in a support action if child support and spousal
support or child support and alimony pendente lite are sought. The decision to
allocate a support order will determine the party that pays the federal income tax,
which affects the actual money available to the beneficiary of the order.
Allocation of a support order may not be appropriate in all cases. Rather,
the decision to allocate must be based upon the facts of the particular case.
Subdivision (f) makes clear that the court has the authority to allocate the order
and that the decision rests in the discretion of the court. The court or the parties
may raise the question of allocation.]
40
Rule 1910.16-6. Support Guidelines. [Adjustments to the ]Basic Support
Obligation Adjustments. [Allocation of ]Additional Expenses Allocation
The [trier of fact]trier-of-fact may allocate between the parties the additional
expenses [identified] in subdivisions (a) - (e). [If under the facts of the case an
order for basic support is not appropriate, the trier of fact]If a basic support order
is inappropriate under the facts of the case, the trier-of-fact may allocate between
the parties the additional expenses.
Except for the subdivisions (b)(4) and (e) expenses, the trier-of-fact shall
calculate the parties’ proportionate share of the additional expenses after
adjusting the parties’ monthly net income by the monthly spousal support or
alimony pendente lite amount received or paid, and then dividing each party’s
adjusted monthly net income by the parties’ combined monthly net income.
However, the trier-of-fact shall not adjust the parties’ monthly net incomes when
apportioning the expenses in child support only cases.
(a) Child care expenses. [Reasonable]The trier-of-fact shall allocate
reasonable child care expenses paid by the parties, if necessary to maintain
employment or appropriate education in pursuit of income[, shall be allocated
between the parties in proportion to their monthly net incomes]. The [court]trier-
of-fact may order that the obligor’s share is added to his or her basic support obligation,
paid directly to the service provider, or paid directly to the obligee. When a party is
receiving a child care subsidy through the Department of Human Services, the
[expenses to be]expense allocated between the parties [shall be]is the amount
actually paid by the party receiving the subsidy.
Example. Mother has primary custody of the parties’ two children and Father has
partial custody. Mother’s monthly net income is $2,000 and Father’s is $3,500. At their
combined income level of $5,500, the basic monthly child support from the schedule in
Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-3 is $1,463 for two children. As Father’s income is 64% of the
parties’ combined monthly net income, his share is $936. Mother incurs child care
expenses of $400 per month and Father incurs $100 of such expenses [each]per
month. The total [amount of] child care expenses, $500, will be apportioned between
the parties, with Father paying 64%, or $320. As [he]Father is already paying $100 for
child care while the children are in his partial custody, he would pay the remaining $220
to Mother for a total child support obligation of $1,156 ($936 + $220 = $1,156).
***
(b) Health Insurance Premiums.
41
[(1) A party’s payment of a premium to provide health insurance
coverage on behalf of the other party and/or the children shall be allocated
between the parties in proportion to their net incomes, including the portion of
the premium attributable to the party who is paying it, as long as a statutory duty
of support is owed to the party who is paying the premium. If there is no
statutory duty of support owed to the party who is paying the premium, the
portion attributable to that person must be deducted from the premium as set
forth in subdivision (2) below. If, prior to the entry of a divorce decree, a party’s
policy covers that party, a child, and a spouse and the spouse has separate
additional coverage not needed to cover the child and/or the other party, the cost
of the spouse’s insurance premium shall not be allocated between the parties. If,
prior to the entry of a divorce decree, a party provides coverage for that party and
a child, but not the spouse, and the spouse has separate coverage, both parties’
premiums shall be allocated between the parties in proportion to their respective
incomes. If, prior to the entry of a divorce decree, each spouse has his or her own
health insurance that does not cover the other party, and there are no children
subject to the order, the cost of both parties’ premiums shall be allocated
between the parties in proportion to their respective incomes. If health insurance
coverage for a child who is the subject of the support proceeding is being
provided and paid for by a third party resident of either party’s household, the
cost shall be allocated between the parties in proportion to their net incomes. If
the obligor is paying the premium, then the obligee’s share is deducted from the
obligor’s basic support obligation. If the obligee is paying the premium, then the
obligor’s share is added to his or her basic support obligation. Employer-paid
premiums are not subject to allocation.
(2) When the health insurance covers a party to whom no
statutory duty of support is owed, even if that person is paying the premium as
set forth in subdivision (1) above, or other persons who are not parties to the
support action or children who are not the subjects of the support action, the
portion of the premium attributable to them must be excluded from allocation. In
the event that evidence as to this portion is not submitted by either party, it shall
be calculated as follows. First, determine the cost per person by dividing the total
cost of the premium by the number of persons covered under the policy. Second,
multiply the cost per person by the number of persons who are not owed a
statutory duty of support, or are not parties to, or the subject of the support
action. The resulting amount is excluded from allocation.
(2.1) The actual incremental amount of the premium which provides
coverage for the subjects of the support order, if submitted by either party, shall
be used in determining the amount of the premium to be allocated between the
parties. If not submitted by either party, then the amount of the premium shall be
42
divided by the number of persons covered to calculate the portion of the premium
that provides coverage to each person.]
(1) The trier-of-fact shall allocate the health insurance premiums
paid by the parties, including the premium attributable to the
party paying the premium, provided that a statutory duty of
support is owed to the party or child covered by the health
insurance.
(i) If the party paying the health insurance premium is the
obligor, the obligee’s share is deducted from the
obligor’s basic support amount.
(ii) If the obligee is paying the health insurance premium,
the obligor’s share is added to his or her basic support
amount.
iii) An allocation of health insurance premiums between the
parties shall also include health insurance that is
provided and paid by a third-party resident of either
party’s household (e.g., step-parent) for a child who is
the subject of the support order.
(2) The trier-of-fact shall not allocate employer-paid premiums or
premiums paid for a party, person, or child to whom no
statutory duty of support is owed.
(i) If the parties present evidence of the excluded
premium’s actual amount — the amount attributed to a
party, person, or child not owed a statutory duty of
support — the trier-of-fact shall deduct the actual
amount excluded from the total premium before
allocating the health insurance premium between the
parties.
(ii) If the parties do not present evidence of the excluded
premium’s actual amount, the trier-of-fact shall calculate
the excluded amount as follows:
(A) determine the premium’s cost per person by
dividing the total premium by the number of
persons covered under the policy;
43
(B) multiply the cost per person by the number of
persons who are not owed a statutory duty of
support, or are not parties to, or the subject of,
the support action; and
(C) the resulting amount is excluded from allocation.
***
Example 3. The parties are divorced and Mother is the obligee of a child support
order. Father, the obligor, pays $200 per month toward the cost of a health insurance
policy provided by his employer that covers himself and the parties’ child. Mother pays
$400 per month for her employer-sponsored health insurance that covers only herself.
The amount of the premium Father pays to cover the parties’ child, $100 ($200 premium
divided between two covered persons, Father and the child), will be allocated between
the parties in proportion to their respective incomes. The portion of the premium that
covers Father will not be allocated because the parties are no longer married and he is
not owed a duty of support by Mother. The premium Mother pays to provide her own
coverage will not be allocated because the parties are no longer married and she is not
owed a duty of support by Father.
***
(c) Unreimbursed Medical Expenses. [Unreimbursed]The trier-of-fact shall
allocate the obligee’s or children’s unreimbursed medical expenses[ of the obligee
or the children shall be allocated between the parties in proportion to their
respective net incomes. Notwithstanding the prior sentence, there shall be no
apportionment of]However, the trier-of-fact shall not allocate unreimbursed medical
expenses incurred by a party who is not owed a statutory duty of support by the other
party. The [court]trier-of-fact may [direct]order that the obligor’s expense share
[be]is added to his or her basic support obligation, [or paid directly to the obligee or
]paid directly to the health care provider, or paid directly to the obligee.
***
[(5) In cases involving only spousal support or alimony pendente
lite, the parties’ respective net incomes for purposes of allocating unreimbursed
medical expenses shall be calculated after the amount of spousal support or
alimony pendente lite is deducted from the obligor’s income and added to the
obligee’s income.]
44
***
(d) Private School Tuition. Summer Camp. Other Needs. Expenditures for
needs outside the scope of typical child-rearing expenses, e.g., private school tuition,
summer camps, have not been factored into the Basic Child Support Schedule.
(1) If a party incurs an expense for a need not factored into the Basic
Child Support Schedule and the [court]trier-of-fact determines the
need and expense are reasonable, the [court]trier-of-fact shall
allocate the expense [between the parties in proportion to the
parties’ monthly net incomes]. The [court]trier-of-fact may order
that the obligor’s expense share is added to his or her basic support
obligation, paid directly to the service provider, or paid directly to the
obligee.
***
(e) Mortgage Payment. The guidelines assume that the spouse occupying
the marital residence will be solely responsible for the mortgage payment, real estate
taxes, and homeowners’ insurance. Similarly, the [court]trier-of-fact will assume that
the party occupying the marital residence will be paying the items listed unless the
recommendation specifically provides otherwise.
(1) If the obligee is living in the marital residence and the mortgage
payment exceeds 25% of the obligee’s monthly net income
(including amounts of spousal support, alimony [pendente
lite]pendente lite, and child support), the [court]trier-of-fact may
direct the obligor to assume up to 50% of the excess amount as
part of the total support [award]amount.
(2) If the obligor is occupying the marital residence and the mortgage
payment exceeds 25% of the obligor’s monthly net income (less
any amount of spousal support, alimony [pendente lite
or]pendente lite, and child support the obligor is paying), the
[court]trier-of-fact may [make an appropriate downward
adjustment in]downwardly adjust the obligor’s support
[obligation]amount.
(3) This rule shall not be applied after a final resolution of [all]the
outstanding economic claims in the parties’ divorce action.
(4) For purposes of this subdivision, the term “mortgage” shall include
45
first mortgages, real estate taxes, and homeowners’ insurance and
may include [any] subsequent mortgages, home equity loans, and
[any] other marital obligations [incurred during the marriage
which are] secured by the marital residence.
[EXPLANATORY COMMENT — 2004
Subdivision (a), relating to the federal child care tax credit, has been
amended to reflect recent amendments to the Internal Revenue Code. 26 U.S.C.A.
21. By referring to the tax code in general, rather than incorporating current code
provisions in the rule, any further amendments will be incorporated into the
support calculation.
EXPLANATORY COMMENT — 2005
Rule 1910.16-6 governs the treatment of additional expenses that warrant
an adjustment to the basic support obligation.
Subdivision (a) relates to child care expenses. Subdivision (a) has been
amended to require that child care expenses incurred by either party are to be
allocated between the parties in proportion to their respective net incomes.
Subsection (a)(1), relating to the federal child care tax credit, was amended in
2004 to reflect recent amendments to the Internal Revenue Code. 26 U.S.C.A. § 21.
By referring to the tax code in general, rather than incorporating current code
provisions in the rule, any further amendments will be incorporated into the
support calculation. Since the tax credit may be taken only against taxes owed, it
cannot be used when the eligible parent does not incur sufficient tax liability to
fully realize the credit. For this reason, subsection (2) provides that no
adjustment to the total child care expenses may be made if the eligible parent
does not qualify to receive the credit.
Subdivision (b) addresses health insurance premiums. The cost of the
premiums is generally treated as an additional expense to be allocated between
the parties in proportion to their net incomes. Subsection (1) of the rule permits
allocation of the entire premium, including the portion of the premium covering
the party carrying the insurance, when the insurance benefits the other party
and/or the children. Subsection (2) clarifies that, in calculating the amount of the
health care premium to be allocated between the parties, subdivision (b)(1)
requires the inclusion of that portion of the health insurance premium covering
the party who is paying the premium, so long as there is a statutory duty of
support owed to that party, but not the portion of the premium attributable to non-
parties and children who are not the subjects of the support order. Subsection (2)
46
provides for proration of the premium when the health insurance covers other
persons who are not subject to the support action or owed a statutory duty of
support. Subdivision (b) also permits an alternative method for dealing with the
cost of health insurance premiums in certain circumstances. While, in general,
the cost of the premiums will be treated as an additional expense to be allocated
between the parties in proportion to their net incomes, in cases in which the
obligee has no income or minimal income, subsection (4) authorizes the trier of
fact to reduce the obligor’s gross income for support purposes by some or all of
the amount of the health insurance premiums. This is to avoid the result under a
prior rule in which the entire cost of health insurance would have been borne by
the obligor, with no resulting reduction in the amount of support he or she would
otherwise be required to pay under the support guidelines. The goal of this
provision is to encourage and facilitate the maintenance of health insurance
coverage for dependents by giving the obligor a financial incentive to maintain
health insurance coverage.
Subdivision (c) deals with unreimbursed medical expenses. Since the first
$250 of medical expenses per year per child is built into the basic guideline
amount in the child support schedule, only medical expenses in excess of $250
per year per child are subject to allocation under this rule as an additional
expense to be added to the basic support obligation. The same is true with
respect to spousal support so that the obligee-spouse is expected to assume the
first $250 per year of these expenses and may seek contribution under this rule
only for unreimbursed expenses which exceed $250 per year. The definition of
“medical expenses” includes insurance co-payments, deductibles and
orthodontia and excludes chiropractic services.
Subdivision (d) governs apportionment of private school tuition, summer
camp and other unusual needs not reflected in the basic guideline amounts of
support. The rule presumes allocation in proportion to the parties’ net incomes
consistent with the treatment of the other additional expenses.
Subdivision (e) provides for the apportionment of mortgage expenses. It
defines “mortgage” to include the real estate taxes and homeowners’ insurance.
While real estate taxes and homeowners’ insurance must be included if the trier
of fact applies the provisions of this subdivision, the inclusion of second
mortgages, home equity loans and other obligations secured by the marital
residence is within the discretion of the trier of fact based upon the
circumstances of the case.
EXPLANATORY COMMENT — 2006
47
A new introductory sentence in Rule 1910.16-6 clarifies that additional
expenses contemplated in the rule may be allocated between the parties even if
the parties’ respective incomes do not warrant an award of basic support. Thus,
even if application of the formula at Rule 1910.16-4 results in a basic support
obligation of zero, the court may enter a support order allocating between the
parties any or all of the additional expenses addressed in this rule.
The amendment to subdivision (e) recognizes that the obligor may be
occupying the marital residence and that, in particular circumstances, justice and
fairness may warrant an adjustment in his or her support obligation.
EXPLANATORY COMMENT — 2008
Federal and state statutes require clarification to subdivision (b) to ensure
that all court orders for support address the children’s ongoing need for medical
care. In those instances where the children’s health care needs are paid by the
state’s medical assistance program, and eligibility for the Children’s Health
Insurance Program (“CHIP”) is denied due to the minimal income of the custodial
parent, the obligor remains required to enroll the parties’ children in health
insurance that is, or may become, available that is reasonable in cost.
Government-sponsored health care plans represent a viable alternative to
the often prohibitive cost of health insurance obtainable by a parent. Except for
very low income children, every child is eligible for CHIP, for which the parent
with primary physical custody must apply and which is based on that parent’s
income. A custodial parent may apply for CHIP by telephone or on the Internet.
While co-premiums or co-pays increase as the custodial parent’s income
increases, such costs are generally modest and should be apportioned between
the parties. Moreover, health care coverage obtained by the custodial parent
generally yields more practical results, as the custodial parent resides in the
geographic coverage area, enrollment cards are issued directly to the custodial
parent, and claims may be submitted directly by the custodial parent.
EXPLANATORY COMMENT — 2010
Subdivision (e), relating to mortgages on the marital residence, has been
amended to clarify that the rule cannot be applied after a final order of equitable
distribution has been entered. To the extent that Isralsky v. Isralsky, 824 A.2d
1178 (Pa. Super. 2003), holds otherwise, it is superseded. At the time of resolution
of the parties’ economic claims, the former marital residence will either have been
awarded to one of the parties or otherwise addressed.]
48
Explanatory Comment — 2004
Subdivision (a), relating to the federal child care tax credit, has been
amended to reflect recent amendments to the Internal Revenue Code, 26 U.S.C. §
21. By generally referencing the Tax Code, rather than incorporating current
Code provisions in the rule, further amendments will be incorporated into the
support calculation.
Explanatory Comment — 2005
Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-6 governs the treatment of additional expenses that
warrant an adjustment to the basic support obligation.
Subdivision (a) relates to child care expenses. Subdivision (a) has been
amended to require that child care expenses incurred by either party are to be
allocated between the parties in proportion to their respective net incomes.
Subsection (a)(1), relating to the federal child care tax credit, was amended in
2004 to reflect recent amendments to the Internal Revenue Code. 26 U.S.C. § 21.
By referring to the Tax Code in general, rather than incorporating current Code
provisions in the rule, any further amendments will be incorporated into the
support calculation. Since the tax credit may be taken only against taxes owed, it
cannot be used when the eligible parent does not incur sufficient tax liability to
fully realize the credit. For this reason, subsection (2) provides that no
adjustment to the total child care expenses may be made if the eligible parent
does not qualify to receive the credit.
Subdivision (b) addresses health insurance premiums. The cost of the
premiums is generally treated as an additional expense to be allocated between
the parties in proportion to their net incomes. Subdivision (b)(1) of the rule
permits allocation of the entire premium, including the portion of the premium
covering the party carrying the insurance, when the insurance benefits the other
party and/or the children. Subdivision (b)(2) clarifies that, in calculating the
amount of the health care premium to be allocated between the parties,
subdivision (b)(1) requires the inclusion of that portion of the health insurance
premium covering the party who is paying the premium, so long as there is a
statutory duty of support owed to that party, but not the portion of the premium
attributable to non-parties and children who are not the subjects of the support
order. Subdivision (b)(2) provides for proration of the premium when the health
insurance covers other persons who are not subject to the support action or
owed a statutory duty of support. Subdivision (b) also permits an alternative
method for dealing with the cost of health insurance premiums in certain
circumstances. While, in general, the cost of the premiums will be treated as an
49
additional expense to be allocated between the parties in proportion to their net
incomes, in cases in which the obligee has no income or minimal income,
subsection (4) authorizes the trier-of-fact to reduce the obligor’s gross income for
support purposes by some or all of the amount of the health insurance premiums.
This is to avoid the result under a prior rule in which the entire cost of health
insurance would have been borne by the obligor, with no resulting reduction in
the amount of support he or she would otherwise be required to pay under the
support guidelines. The goal of this provision is to encourage and facilitate the
maintenance of health insurance coverage for dependents by giving the obligor a
financial incentive to maintain health insurance coverage.
Subdivision (c) deals with unreimbursed medical expenses. Since the first
$250 of medical expenses per year per child is built into the basic guideline
amount in the child support schedule, only medical expenses in excess of $250
per year per child are subject to allocation under this rule as an additional
expense to be added to the basic support obligation. The same is true with
respect to spousal support so that the obligee-spouse is expected to assume the
first $250 per year of these expenses and may seek contribution under this rule
only for unreimbursed expenses which exceed $250 per year. The definition of
“medical expenses” includes insurance co-payments, deductibles and
orthodontia and excludes chiropractic services.
Subdivision (d) governs apportionment of private school tuition, summer
camp and other unusual needs not reflected in the basic guideline amounts of
support. The rule presumes allocation in proportion to the parties’ net incomes
consistent with the treatment of the other additional expenses.
Subdivision (e) provides for the apportionment of mortgage expenses. It
defines “mortgage” to include the real estate taxes and homeowners’ insurance.
While real estate taxes and homeowners’ insurance must be included if the trier-
of-fact applies the provisions of this subdivision, the inclusion of second
mortgages, home equity loans and other obligations secured by the marital
residence is within the trier-of-fact’s discretion based upon the circumstances of
the case.
Explanatory Comment — 2006
A new introductory sentence in Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-6 clarifies that
additional expenses contemplated in the rule may be allocated between the
parties even if the parties’ respective incomes do not warrant an award of basic
support. Thus, even if application of either formula Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-4
results in a basic support obligation of zero, the trier-of-fact may enter a support
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order allocating between the parties any or all of the additional expenses
addressed in this rule.
The amendment of subdivision (e) recognizes that the obligor may be
occupying the marital residence and that, in particular circumstances, justice and
fairness may warrant an adjustment in his or her support obligation.
Explanatory Comment — 2008
Federal and state statutes require clarification to subdivision (b) to ensure
that all court orders for support address the children’s ongoing need for medical
care. In those instances where the children’s health care needs are paid by the
state’s medical assistance program, and eligibility for the Children’s Health
Insurance Program (“CHIP”) is denied due to the minimal income of the custodial
parent, the obligor remains required to enroll the parties’ children in health
insurance that is, or may become, available that is reasonable in cost.
Government-sponsored health care plans represent a viable alternative to
the often prohibitive cost of health insurance obtainable by a parent. Except for
very low income children, every child is eligible for CHIP, for which the parent
with primary physical custody must apply and which is based on that parent’s
income. A custodial parent may apply for CHIP by telephone or on the Internet.
While co-premiums or co-pays increase as the custodial parent’s income
increases, such costs are generally modest and should be apportioned between
the parties. Moreover, health care coverage obtained by the custodial parent
generally yields more practical results, as the custodial parent resides in the
geographic coverage area, enrollment cards are issued directly to the custodial
parent, and claims may be submitted directly by the custodial parent.
Explanatory Comment — 2010
Subdivision (e), relating to mortgages on the marital residence, has been
amended to clarify that the rule cannot be applied after a final order of equitable
distribution has been entered. To the extent that Isralsky v. Isralsky, 824 A.2d
1178 (Pa. Super. 2003), holds otherwise, it is superseded. At the time of resolution
of the parties’ economic claims, the former marital residence will either have been
awarded to one of the parties or otherwise addressed.
Explanatory Comment — 2018
The amendments provide for an adjustment to the parties’ monthly net
incomes prior to determining the percentage each party pays toward the
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expenses set forth in Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-6. Previously, the Rules of Civil
Procedure apportioned the enumerated expenses in Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-6(a)-
(d), with the exception of subdivision (c)(5), between the parties based on the
parties’ respective monthly net incomes as calculated pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. No.
1910.16-2. This apportionment did not consider the amount of support paid by
the obligor or received by the obligee.
The amended rule adjusts the parties’ monthly net incomes, upward or
downward, by the spousal support/APL amount paid or received by that party
prior to apportioning the expenses. This methodology is not new to the Rules of
Civil Procedure. In Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-6(c)(5)(rescinded), the parties’ monthly
net incomes in spousal support/APL-only cases were similarly adjusted prior to
the apportionment of unreimbursed medical expenses. Likewise, Pa.R.C.P. No.
1910.16-6(e) considers the parties’ monthly net income after the receipt or
payment of the support obligation for purposes of determining a mortgage
deviation. As the new procedure adopts the methodology in former subdivision
(c)(5), that subdivision has been rescinded as delineating the spousal support
only circumstance is unnecessary.
Lastly, the amendment consolidates Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-6(b)(1), (2), and
(2.1).
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Rule 1910.18. Support Order. Subsequent Proceedings. Modification of Spousal
Support or Alimony Pendente Lite Orders Entered Before January 1, 2019
(a) Subsequent support order modification or termination proceedings [to
modify or terminate a support order pursuant to Rule] pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. No.
1910.19 shall be brought in the court [which]that entered the order. If the action has
been transferred pursuant to [Rule]Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.2 following the entry of a
support order, subsequent proceedings shall be brought in the court to which the action
was transferred.
(b) Subsequent support order enforcement proceedings [to enforce an
order pursuant to Rule]pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.20 may be brought in the
court [which]that entered the support order or the court [of a county] to which the
order has been transferred.
(c) Subdivision (a) shall not limit the plaintiff’s right[ of the plaintiff] to
institute additional support proceedings[ for support] in [any]a county of proper
venue.
(d) Unless a modification provides that the Internal Revenue Code, as
amended by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (Pub. L. No. 115-97), expressly
applies, an order entered before January 1, 2019 that includes spousal support or
alimony pendente lite is governed by the Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-4(a)(2)(Part IV)
formula.
Note: See Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-4(a)(1)(Part B) or (2)(Part IV), as relevant.
***
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Rule 1910.19. Support. Modification. Termination. Guidelines as Substantial
Change in Circumstances. Overpayments
***
(c) Pursuant to a petition for modification, the [trier of fact]trier-of-fact may
modify or terminate the existing support order in any appropriate manner based
[upon]on the evidence presented without regard to which party filed the petition for
modification. If the [trier of fact]trier-of-fact finds that there has been a material and
substantial change in circumstances, the order may be increased or decreased
[depending upon]based on the parties’ respective monthly net incomes[ of the
parties], consistent with the support guidelines, [and ]existing law, and Pa.R.C.P. No.
1910.18(d), and [each]the party’s custodial time with the child at the time the
modification petition is heard.
***
(h) Modification of a Support Order with Child Support and Spousal
Support or Child Support and Alimony Pendente Lite Entered Before January 1,
2019.
(1) In a subsequent modification proceeding of an order awarding
child support and spousal support or child support and
alimony pendente lite, as provided in Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.18(d),
the trier-of-fact may on its own motion or upon the motion of a
party:
(i) make an unallocated award in favor of the spouse and
one or more children; or
(ii) state the support amount allocable to the spouse and to
each child.
(2) The trier-of-fact shall clearly state whether the order is
allocated or unallocated even if the child support and spousal
support or child support and alimony pendente lite amounts
are delineated in the order.
(i) If the order is allocated, the Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910-
16.4(a)(2)(Part IV) formula determines the spousal
support amount.
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(A) As the formula assumes an unallocated order, if
the order’s allocation utilizing the formula is
inequitable, the trier-of-fact may adjust the order,
as appropriate.
(B) In making an adjustment, the trier-of-fact shall
consider the federal income tax consequences.
(C) If the parties are in higher income brackets, the
income tax considerations are likely to be a more
significant factor in determining a support
amount.
(ii) If the order is unallocated or the order is for spousal
support or alimony pendente lite only, the trier-of-fact
shall not consider the federal income tax consequences.
Note: See 23 Pa.C.S. § 4348(d) for additional matters that must be specified
in a support order if arrearages exist when the order is entered.
(3) A support award for a spouse and children is taxable to the
obligee while an award for the children only is not.
Consequently, in certain situations, an award only for the
children will be more favorable to the obligee than an award to
the spouse and children. In this situation, the trier-of-fact
should utilize the method that provides the greatest benefit to
the obligee.
(4) If the obligee’s monthly net income is equal to or greater than
the obligor’s monthly net income, the guideline amount for
spouse and children is identical to the guideline amount for
children only. Therefore, in cases involving support for
spouse and children, whenever the obligee’s monthly net
income is equal to or greater than the obligor’s monthly net
income, the guideline amount indicated shall be attributed to
child support only.
(5) Unallocated child support and spousal support or child
support and alimony pendente lite orders shall terminate upon
the obligee’s death.
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(6) In the event that the obligor defaults on an unallocated order,
the trier-of-fact shall allocate the order for child support
collection pursuant to the Internal Revenue Service income tax
refund intercept program or for registration and enforcement
of the order in another jurisdiction under the Uniform
Interstate Family Support Act, 23 Pa.C.S. §§ 7101 - 7903. The
trier-of-fact shall provide the parties with notice of allocation.
Note: This provision is necessary to comply with various state and federal
laws relating to child support enforcement. It is not intended to affect an
unallocated order’s tax consequences.
(7) An unallocated child support and spousal support or child
support and alimony pendente lite order is a final order as to
the claims covered in the order.
(8) Motions for post-trial relief cannot be filed to the final order.
Note: The procedure relating to Motions for Reconsideration is set forth in
Pa.R.C.P. No. 1930.2.
Subdivision (h) incorporates Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16 (rescinded) and
Pa.R.C.P. No. 1910.16-4(f)(rescinded) for subsequent modification proceedings
due to the enactment of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (Pub. L. No. 115-97).
***
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