How Texas Child Support Is Calculated
Texas child support follows the guideline formula set out in Texas Family Code Chapter 154. The calculation starts with the obligor's gross monthly income and subtracts specific deductions to arrive at "net resources." A percentage of net resources, based on the number of children, determines the guideline support amount.
Step 1: Calculate Net Resources
Net resources include all income from any source — wages, salary, commissions, self-employment income, dividends, interest, rental income, and more. From this gross amount, the following are subtracted:
- Federal income tax (based on single-filer rate, per the statute)
- Social Security tax (6.2% up to the $184,500 wage cap in 2026)
- Medicare tax (1.45% on all wages)
- Union dues
- Cost of health insurance for the child
Note: Texas has no state income tax, so there is no state tax deduction. This is one reason many families choose to relocate to cities like Dallas or Austin where the cost of living can be more manageable.
Step 2: Apply the Net Resources Cap
As of September 1, 2025, the net resources cap is $11,700 per month. The guideline percentage is applied only to net resources up to this cap. For obligors earning above the cap, a court may order additional support based on the child's proven needs — but the formula only covers the first $11,700.
Step 3: Apply the Guideline Percentage
For obligors with no other children to support, the percentages are: 20% for 1 child, 25% for 2, 30% for 3, 35% for 4, 40% for 5 or more. If the obligor has children from other relationships, the multi-family adjusted table reduces these percentages to account for the obligation to all children.
Court Discretion
While the guideline amount is presumed reasonable, judges retain discretion to deviate from it. Common reasons include: special medical or educational needs of the child, significant travel costs for visitation, the custodial parent's income and resources, and any agreements between the parties. If your living situation is changing, you can search for affordable apartments across Texas to help manage your new budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
What changed with the Texas child support cap in September 2025?
How are "net resources" calculated for Texas child support?
Can a Texas court order child support above or below the guidelines?
How do I modify an existing Texas child support order?
What happens if my income is above the $11,700 net resources cap?
How does having children from another relationship affect the calculation?
Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates based on the Texas Family Code §154.125 guideline formula. Actual child support orders may differ — courts retain discretion to deviate from the guidelines based on the best interest of the child. This is not legal advice. Consult a family law attorney.