How to change child support in Pennsylvania
How and when to ask for a new amount, with a review letter.
Checked against official sources: Oct 25, 2026.
Short answer
To modify an order means to change the amount by a new order. When there is a material and substantial change in circumstances, such as new or lost income, higher child care or medical coverage costs, a change in custody, or a child's emancipation.
- Agency review
- Every 3 years if a parent asks (federal law)
When you can ask for a change in Pennsylvania
When there is a material and substantial change in circumstances, such as new or lost income, higher child care or medical coverage costs, a change in custody, or a child's emancipation. A new guideline amount from revised guidelines may also count.
Law: Pa.R.Civ.P. 1910.19
Can I ask for a change? Check your situation
How to ask for a change in Pennsylvania
File a Petition for Modification with your county DRS (paper form from the DRS, or online through E-Services). The DRS schedules an office conference; if either party disagrees with the result, there can be a court hearing.
Write to the child support agency to ask for a review: Ask the agency to review (change) your order
New rules in Pennsylvania
The Pennsylvania Supreme Court amended the support guidelines on August 11, 2025, effective January 1, 2026 (55 Pa.B. 5978), including an updated basic child support schedule and a Self-Support Reserve of $1,255. Rule 1910.16-2 was also amended October 25, 2024 (54 Pa.B. 7348).
Incarceration and changes
State guidelines may not treat time in jail or prison as choosing not to work, when support is set or changed.
Law: 45 CFR 302.56(c)(3)
In nearby states
Your next steps in Pennsylvania
Find your order
Find the date and the amount on the order.
Compare with the rule
The rule in Pennsylvania: When there is a material and substantial change in circumstances, such as new or lost income, higher child care or medical coverage costs, a change in custody, or a child's emancipation.
Gather proof
Papers that show the change make the request stronger.
Send your request
Request a review from Pennsylvania Department of Human Services, Bureau of Child Support Enforcement (1-800-932-0211) · Apply online
Ask for free help
Legal aid can help for free: Pennsylvania Bar Association - Find a Lawyer.
Where to get free help in Pennsylvania
Questions about changing support in Pennsylvania
What counts as a reason to change support in Pennsylvania?
When there is a material and substantial change in circumstances, such as new or lost income, higher child care or medical coverage costs, a change in custody, or a child's emancipation. A new guideline amount from revised guidelines may also count.
How do I request a review in Pennsylvania?
File a Petition for Modification with your county DRS (paper form from the DRS, or online through E-Services). The DRS schedules an office conference; if either party disagrees with the result, there can be a court hearing.