Texas Child Support Calculator
Texas child support is calculated based on a percentage of the noncustodial parent's net income.
Inaccurate child support calculations could cost you thousands
- •Underestimating: Face court-ordered back payments with interest
- •Overestimating: Pay more than legally required for years
- •Missing deductions: Lose money on legitimate income adjustments
- •Ignoring income caps: Miscalculate obligations above state limits
Common Texas mistakes:
- •Not knowing the $9,200 monthly income cap could lead to hundreds in overpayment
- •Forgetting other children obligations results in double-counting support
- •Using outdated percentage rates risks court challenges
How Texas Child Support is Calculated
Texas uses a percentage-based model: Child support is calculated as a percentage of the paying parent's monthly net resources, as defined by Texas Family Code Section 154.062.
Standard Guidelines:
- 1 Child: 20% of net resources
- 2 Children: 25% of net resources
- 3 Children: 30% of net resources
- 4 Children: 35% of net resources
- 5+ Children: 40% of net resources
Key Limits:
- Current cap: $9,200/month net resources
- Low-income guidelines apply under $1,000/month
- Cap adjusts every 6 years for inflation
* This calculator provides estimates based on Texas Family Code guidelines. Actual court orders may vary based on specific circumstances.
What is Texas Child Support?
Texas child support is a monthly payment made by one parent (the obligor) to help cover the costs of raising their child. The amount is determined by Texas Family Code guidelines and is based on the paying parent's income and the number of children requiring support.
Legal Foundation
Based on Texas Family Code Chapter 154, child support calculations follow strict guidelines to ensure consistency and fairness across all cases. These guidelines are considered "presumptively correct" unless specific circumstances warrant deviation.
Current Standards
The state reviews and updates income caps every six years. As of 2019, the maximum monthly net resources subject to guidelines is $9,200. Income above this amount requires additional court consideration.
Key Features of Our Calculator
Accurate Calculations
Based on official Texas Family Code Section 154.062 and current state guidelines with up-to-date income caps and percentages.
Instant Results
Get your child support estimate in minutes with our step-by-step guided process that accounts for all relevant factors.
Comprehensive Factors
Includes medical support, multiple families, and special circumstances as defined by Texas law.
How Texas Child Support Calculation Works
Calculate Monthly Net Resources
Add all income sources (wages, self-employment, benefits) and subtract allowable deductions (taxes, health insurance) to determine monthly net resources according to Texas Family Code Section 154.062.
Apply Guideline Percentage
Multiply net resources by the appropriate percentage: 20% for 1 child, 25% for 2 children, 30% for 3 children, 35% for 4 children, or 40% for 5+ children.
Add Medical Support
Include health insurance costs and a proportional share of uninsured medical expenses as required by Texas law.
Consider Special Circumstances
Account for factors like multiple families, low income guidelines (under $1,000/month), or high income situations (above $9,200/month).
Frequently Asked Questions
What income counts toward child support in Texas?
Texas law includes all forms of income: wages, salary, self-employment income, bonuses, commissions, interest, dividends, rental income, retirement benefits, unemployment benefits, and most other sources of regular income. Social Security benefits and VA disability benefits are also included.
What deductions are allowed when calculating net resources?
Only specific deductions are allowed: Social Security taxes, federal income tax (calculated using standard deduction for single filer), state income tax, union dues, and health insurance costs for the obligor's children. Other common deductions like mortgage payments or car loans are not allowed.
What if my income is above the $9,200 monthly cap?
For income above $9,200 per month, the court has discretion to order additional support based on the child's needs and the obligor's ability to pay. The guidelines apply to the first $9,200, and additional amounts are determined case by case.
How accurate is this calculator?
Our calculator uses the exact formulas and guidelines from Texas Family Code Section 154. However, actual court orders may vary based on specific circumstances, custody arrangements, or other factors unique to your case. This tool provides estimates for planning purposes.
Does this calculator work for shared custody arrangements?
Texas guidelines are designed for standard possession schedules. For 50/50 custody arrangements, courts often use an "offset method" comparing both parents' obligations. Our calculator provides the standard calculation, and you should consult with an attorney for shared custody scenarios.
Related Resources
Understand the legal framework behind your calculations
Read Law GuideCalculate your other Texas support obligations
Calculate NowReal User Reviews - Texas Child Support Calculator
"Calculation matched exactly what my attorney quoted me. The Texas 20% rule for one child was applied perfectly. Saved me $500 in consultation fees."
"Great tool for high earners. It properly handled my income above the $9,200 cap and explained what the judge might consider for additional amounts."
"Interface is clean and step-by-step process is easy to follow. The other children calculation helped me understand why my support was reduced."
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