Texas Child Support Calculator

How Texas Calculates Child Support

Texas keeps its child support calculation very straightforward. The court looks at your monthly net income and applies a set percentage based on how many children you have. Unlike many states, the other parent's income is not part of this basic calculation.

Understanding Texas's Shared Custody Rules

While the standard formula doesn't automatically change, a judge can adjust the final amount in cases of 50/50 or nearly equal parenting time. Often, the court will calculate what each parent would owe the other, and the parent with the higher obligation pays the difference to the other parent.

Frequently Asked Questions About TX Support

At what age does child support end in TX?

In Texas, child support obligations typically end when the child turns 18 or graduates from high school, whichever occurs later. Support may continue indefinitely for a child with a disability who is not capable of self-support.

How is child support calculated if one parent is unemployed in TX?

If a parent is voluntarily unemployed or underemployed, the court can 'impute' income. This means the judge will calculate child support based on that parent's earning potential, considering their skills, work history, and job opportunities in the area, rather than their actual low or zero income.

How do I modify a child support order in TX?

You can request a modification if there has been a 'material and substantial change' in circumstances for either parent or the child. Additionally, you can request a review if it has been at least three years since the last order and the new calculation would differ by 20% or $100.

Does TX child support cover college expenses?

No, Texas courts cannot order a parent to pay for college tuition or expenses. However, parents can voluntarily agree to share college costs and make that agreement a legally binding part of their divorce decree or court order.

How does TX handle health insurance and childcare costs?

The cost of the child's health and dental insurance is an additional expense paid on top of the base child support amount. The court will order one or both parents to provide coverage. Necessary childcare expenses can also be ordered as an additional payment, but they are not automatically included in the guideline percentage.