Pennsylvania Alimony Pendente Lite Calculator – How Support Is Determined
In Pennsylvania, temporary spousal support—known as alimony pendente lite—is calculated using a clear formula that compares the monthly net incomes of the higher‑earning (payor) and lower‑earning (payee) spouses during separation and while the divorce is pending.
Reviewed 2026-08-27 · Estimates only — not legal or financial advice.
How Pennsylvania calculates it
- Determine each spouse’s monthly net income.
- If the couple has no minor children, multiply the payor’s monthly net income by 33%.
- Subtract 40% of the payee’s monthly net income from that amount.
- If the couple has minor children, multiply the payor’s monthly net income by 25% and subtract 30% of the payee’s monthly net income.
- The result is never less than $0.
- The calculation applies only to support during separation; post‑divorce alimony is decided separately.
Worked example
With no minor children: payor earns $84,000/year net ($7,000/month), payee $36,000/year ($3,000/month). 33% × $7,000 = $2,310; 40% × $3,000 = $1,200; difference = $1,110/month guideline support.
Frequently asked questions
What is alimony pendente lite?
Alimony pendente lite is temporary spousal support paid during separation and while the divorce case is pending.
Who is considered the payor and who is the payee?
The payor is the higher‑earning spouse who will make the support payments; the payee is the lower‑earning spouse who receives them.
How do minor children affect the support calculation?
When the spouses share minor children, the formula uses 25% of the payor’s income minus 30% of the payee’s income instead of the 33%/40% rates used when there are no minor children.
Can the guideline support amount be negative?
No. The formula’s result is never allowed to be below $0.
Is the guideline amount the final alimony order?
No. The guideline provides a baseline for pendente lite support; final post‑divorce alimony is discretionary and based on the 17 factors in 23 Pa.C.S. § 3701.