Texas Child Support Calculator & Guide (2025)
Overview of Texas Child Support
Texas uses a straightforward Percentage of Income model under Texas Family Code Chapter 154. Unlike most states that use the Income Shares Model, Texas calculates child support by applying a set percentage to the non-custodial parent's net monthly resources.
This makes Texas one of the simplest states for child support calculations. The formula is transparent and easy to understand, though the court has discretion to deviate from the guidelines when appropriate.
How Child Support Is Calculated in Texas
The Texas child support formula works as follows:
- Determine net monthly resources: Start with gross income and subtract taxes, Social Security, Medicare, health insurance for the child, and union dues
- Apply the percentage based on the number of children before the court
- Cap at $9,200 of net monthly resources (as of 2025)
- Add medical support (health insurance costs are typically separate)
- Credit for multi-family adjustments if the parent has children from other relationships
Texas Child Support Percentages
| Number of Children | % of Net Resources | Example ($4,000/mo net) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 child | 20% | $800 |
| 2 children | 25% | $1,000 |
| 3 children | 30% | $1,200 |
| 4 children | 35% | $1,400 |
| 5 children | 37.5% | $1,500 |
| 6+ children | 40%+ | $1,600+ |
Key Factors in Texas Calculations
Net Resources Definition
Texas defines "net resources" as all income from all sources minus:
- Federal and state income taxes
- Social Security taxes
- Medicare taxes
- Health insurance premiums for the child
- Union dues
- State income tax (not applicable in Texas, but relevant if earning out-of-state income)
Credit for Other Children
If the non-custodial parent has children from other relationships that they are legally obligated to support, the percentage may be reduced. This is called a "multi-family adjustment."
Overnight Possession Credit
Texas provides a credit for overnight possession time. If the non-custodial parent has the child for a significant number of overnights (typically 100+ per year in a standard possession order), the support amount may be reduced.
Minimum and Maximum Amounts
Minimum: $100 per month (unless good cause is shown for a lower amount or both parents agree to less).
Maximum cap: The guidelines apply to the first $9,200 of net monthly resources. For income above this cap, the court has discretion to order additional support based on the proven needs of the child.
Modification and Enforcement
Modification
Texas allows modification when:
- There has been a material and substantial change in circumstances
- It has been 3+ years since the order and the amount would change by $100+ or 20%+
- The child turns 18 or graduates from high school
Enforcement
The Texas Office of the Attorney General enforces child support through:
- Income withholding from paychecks
- Tax refund interception
- Driver's license suspension
- Professional license suspension
- Credit bureau reporting
- Contempt of court (up to 6 months in jail per violation)
- Liens on property and financial accounts
Get your Texas estimate: Use our free child support calculator to see what you might owe or receive under Texas guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is child support calculated in Texas?
What is the Texas child support cap?
What is the minimum child support in Texas?
Does Texas consider both parents' income?
Can Texas child support be modified?
Legal Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Child support laws vary by state and are subject to change. For advice specific to your situation, please consult a qualified family law attorney in your jurisdiction.