(1) When the division of child support (DCS) calculates and applies the self-support reserve, DCS:

(a) Uses the amount shown for a one-person family in the federal poverty guideline for the current year; and

(b) Multiplies that amount by one hundred twenty-five percent.

(2) The self-support reserve does not vary depending on whether or not the parent is responsible for shelter costs.

(3) An administrative law judge (ALJ) must calculate and apply the self-support reserve using the one-person family amount.

(4) The provisions of the Washington Administrative Code (WAC) are not binding on the superior courts or tribal courts. Those tribunals may use different methods for calculating and applying the self-support reserve.