Pss/cs

[R111]

Preparing for mediation next week where I am going to request PSS and child support.

I have used the calculator to determine my spouse will owe me child support.

What is the best method for calculating PSS? I recognize that it varies based on the situation. However, she earns approximately 75% of our monthly gross income. I have taken the 25% difference in our incomes and multiplied it against her monthly gross to make it truly 50-50. Should I subtract child support before? Does PSS get taken into account for child support calculations?

I am confused about how to truly calculate the amount of PSS.

Thanks in advance for your reply.

[Erin_Clarey]

PSS is based on the reasonable needs of the dependant spouse, and the ability of the supporting spouse to pay. The best way to determine your needs is to create a budget which accounts for all of your living expenses at the present time. You will need to account for the child support amount, and remember that any PSS you receive is taxable to you which means you need to “gross up” any amount you receive to account for the income taxes you will pay on the support amount.