New High Income Child Support Guidelines Passed in PA
A new formula for deciding child support for high-income parents has taken effect in Pennsylvania.
In the past, high-income cases were decided based on the “reasonable needs” of the children – often referred to as the Melzer analysis – a process that typically included a portion of the household mortgage, utilities and other overhead items, as well as nonessentials such as vacations. The new formula simply applies to parents whose combined net, after-tax monthly income is more than $30,000, thus more closely resembling the way child support is calculated at other income levels – basing support almost entirely on income, not expenses.
Observers expect that the new formula will likely reduce child-support awards for high-income families, though the court may consider other factors in determining child support. Specifically, support amounts may be altered based on the following:
– The unusual needs and unusual fixed obligations of the parties
– Other support obligations of the parties
– Additional household income
– Ages of the children
– The parties’ relative assets and liabilities
– Medical expenses not covered by insurance
– Standard of living of the parties and their children
For information on how the new child-support formula for high-income parents could affect your family, contact Timoney Knox, LLP.
Sources:
Pennsylvania Passes New Child Support Guidelines, Main Line Times, 2/20/2010
Family Law Source, 5/17/2013