Ever tried figuring out who’s paying for soccer cleats, birthday parties, or that unexpected orthodontist bill after a divorce? It’s rarely as simple as splitting the check. That’s where Texas Child Support Calculation comes into play—it’s the legal process that helps parents untangle the financial “who covers what” so kids don’t get caught in the middle.
Here’s the short version: Texas uses structured guidelines based on a parent’s income to ensure kids have what they need, from basic necessities to those inevitable surprise expenses. But what many parents don’t realize is that the system isn’t one-size-fits-all—courts can adjust support depending on unique family circumstances, and those adjustments often make the difference between constant conflict and a smoother transition for everyone.
In this article, we’ll break down exactly how child support is calculated in Texas, share insights you won’t find on a calculator app, and give you practical guidance from attorneys who do this every day. You’ll also hear real-life examples of families who found stability after divorce, plus tips you can start using right now—whether that’s keeping open communication with the other parent, knowing when to seek a modification, or learning how enforcement actually works.
Stick around, because the more you understand about child support in Texas, the more confident you’ll feel about protecting your child’s needs and your family’s future.
Key Takeaways
- Texas child support calculations are based on structured guidelines that factor in the noncustodial parent’s net income, children’s needs, and specific circumstances to ensure fair support.
- Accurate documentation of income, childcare, and medical expenses is essential in calculating child support to prevent legal complications and ensure fair obligations.
- Modifications to child support orders can be requested due to significant changes in circumstances, with a structured legal process required for adjustments to ensure the child’s changing needs are met.
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Understanding Texas Child Support Calculation
Texas Child Support Calculation is guided by the structured framework set forth in the Texas Family Code §§ 154.001–154.309, which governs how much financial support a noncustodial parent must provide to meet their child’s essential needs. These needs include housing, food, clothing, medical and dental care, and childcare. The goal of the law is not only to ensure compliance with state guidelines but also to protect a child’s overall stability and well-being throughout and after divorce.
Accurate child support calculations are vital because errors can result in severe financial stress for parents and significant hardship for children. Misreporting income, overlooking deductions, or misunderstanding how guideline percentages apply can all create avoidable complications. This is why understanding how calculations are made—step by step—is the first step toward achieving fair outcomes that reflect both a child’s needs and a parent’s financial capacity.
Under the current law, Texas applies percentage guidelines to a parent’s net monthly resources, capped as of September 2025 at $11,700 per month. Courts then adjust these guidelines based on the number of children eligible for support, as well as any special circumstances such as extraordinary medical costs, educational needs, or additional children supported in other households. For a deeper explanation of this process, parents may benefit from reviewing this detailed Texas Child Support Resource, which walks through the statutory framework in plain language.
At The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC, our attorneys emphasize not just the importance of accurate calculations, but also how those calculations affect the daily lives of children. We regularly counsel parents on gathering the right documentation, understanding the nuances of the Texas Family Code, and preparing for court or mediation in a way that protects their child’s best interests. If you are concerned about child support—whether establishing, enforcing, or modifying orders—our team is here to provide clarity and compassion, helping you make informed decisions that protect your child’s future.
What Is Child Support?
Child support in Texas refers to financial payments made by the noncustodial parent to support the child’s daily needs. These payments cover a broad spectrum of child-rearing costs, including:
- Housing
- Food
- Clothing
- Healthcare
- Childcare
- Health insurance premiums for the children
These court-ordered contributions are crucial for ensuring that the child receives adequate care and support from both parents. Legally mandating financial support helps create a balanced approach that prioritizes the child’s best interests. The ultimate goal is to make sure the child’s upbringing is not compromised due to financial constraints.
Importance of Accurate Child Support Calculation
Accurate child support calculations in Texas take into account various factors, including healthcare needs, educational expenses, and any special circumstances that the child may have. This ensures that the child receives the necessary financial support tailored to their unique needs. Additionally, the amount of time a child spends with each parent and the associated costs can significantly affect these calculations.
Self-employed parents or those with irregular income sources such as bonuses, overtime, or freelance work often struggle with accurately reporting their income, including a parent’s income. Compiling a comprehensive list of income sources and necessary documents before starting the child support calculation process is essential. This helps in creating a fair and accurate financial representation, avoiding potential legal complications down the road.
Steps to Calculate Child Support in Texas
Texas Child Support Calculation follows a structured process established under the Texas Family Code §§ 154.001–154.309, which provides courts with the authority to determine fair and consistent child support obligations. The purpose of these laws is to ensure that every child receives the financial support necessary for their health, education, and overall well-being while balancing the financial capacity of each parent.
The process begins with determining a parent’s net monthly resources, a calculation that includes wages, salary, bonuses, commissions, and certain benefits, while excluding items such as federal income taxes and union dues. As of September 2025, the maximum cap on monthly net resources has been updated to $11,700, meaning guideline percentages apply only up to that amount. For a step-by-step guide to understanding what counts as income and how courts make this calculation, visit our in-depth article on How to Calculate Net Resources for Child Support.
Once net resources are determined, the next step is identifying eligible children. Under Texas Family Code § 154.002, children are generally entitled to support until they turn 18 or graduate from high school, whichever occurs later, with special provisions for children with disabilities. After confirming eligibility, guideline percentages are applied under Texas Family Code § 154.125, beginning at 20% of net resources for one child, 25% for two, and increasing with each additional child. Courts may adjust these percentages when there are multiple families to support or when unique circumstances justify a deviation.
The final step involves applying these calculations to determine the actual child support obligation. This may be modified to account for medical and dental insurance costs, childcare expenses, or extraordinary educational needs. A parent’s failure to provide accurate documentation or fully disclose income can result in unfair calculations and even legal penalties, which is why legal guidance is so critical at this stage.
At Bryan Fagan’s family law team, we understand that child support isn’t just about numbers—it’s about securing your child’s future. We provide parents with compassionate, practical advice to help them prepare documentation, understand their rights under the Texas Family Code, and ensure that calculations are handled fairly. For additional insights, you may also explore our resource on the Texas Child Support Process, which provides further clarity on how the law applies in real-life cases.
Step 1: Determine Monthly Net Resources
The first step in calculating child support is determining the noncustodial parent’s monthly net resources. This includes all sources of income such as:
- wages
- salary
- commissions
- overtime
- self-employment income
- unemployment benefits
- retirement benefits
- Social Security
Accurately tallying these obligor’s net resources ensures that the support amount reflects the true financial capacity of the noncustodial parent.
Self-employment income adds a layer of complexity to this calculation. It’s crucial to differentiate between personal and business expenses to arrive at an accurate net income. Considering all these factors ensures a fair and equitable starting point for the child support calculation.
Step 2: Identify Eligible Children
Identifying eligible children is the next step in the child support calculation process. Eligibility typically includes children under 18 years old, those still in high school, and children with disabilities. However, certain conditions like joining the military, getting married, or seeking legal emancipation can disqualify a child from receiving support.
The number of eligible children directly influences the support calculation. It’s also essential to consider how many children, one child, other children, three children, and four children for whom there is a legal duty of support. This comprehensive approach ensures that all children’s needs are adequately addressed.
Step 3: Apply the Percentage Guidelines
Applying the percentage guidelines is a crucial step in calculating child support. The percentage of income required for child support is adjusted based on the number of children needing support. For instance, the custodial parent is entitled to receive 40% of the noncustodial parent’s net resources for five children.
Accurate documentation of all childcare costs and medical expenses is also vital for this step.
Step 4: Calculate the Final Amount
Calculating the final amount involves:
- Multiplying the net monthly income by the applicable percentage based on the number of eligible children.
- Using tools like the monthly child support calculator to provide estimates, though the actual monthly amount set by the court may differ.
- Keeping track of all childcare and medical expenses, which can significantly influence the final calculation, including calculating child support payments.
Child support guidelines do not cover support in excess of $11,700 net resources. Inaccurate calculations often arise from overlooking specific guidelines. Therefore, meticulous documentation and a thorough understanding of the guidelines are essential for an accurate final amount of child support.
Factors Influencing Child Support Calculations
When it comes to Texas Child Support Calculation, courts don’t simply rely on a rigid formula. While guideline percentages under the Texas Family Code §§ 154.001–154.309 provide a starting point, judges also have discretion to consider a wide range of factors that can increase or decrease the final support amount. This flexibility ensures that child support orders reflect not just numbers, but a child’s real-life needs and a parent’s true financial capacity.
Key influences include unique circumstances such as extraordinary medical or educational expenses, as permitted under Texas Family Code § 154.123, which authorizes courts to deviate from standard guidelines if following them would be unjust or inappropriate. Significant changes in a parent’s income—such as job loss, a promotion, or self-employment income fluctuations—can also trigger adjustments. Equally important is the issue of financial transparency. Undisclosed resources like rental income, cash payments, or valuable gifts can result in unfair calculations and even legal consequences if hidden from the court.
Because the process can be complex, it’s important for parents to understand both the statutory framework and the practical realities of disclosure. Our attorneys often counsel clients that honesty and meticulous documentation are not only legally required but also essential to protecting your credibility in court. For a deeper exploration of these issues, we encourage you to review our article on Key Factors Affecting Child Support Calculations, which explains how the law applies to real-world cases.
At Bryan Fagan’s family law practice, we recognize that every family is different, and child support must be tailored to a child’s best interests. By combining legal expertise with compassionate guidance, we help parents navigate the complexities of disclosure, modification, and enforcement to ensure that their child’s future remains secure. For additional support, you can also explore our Texas Child Support Resource, which breaks down the calculation process step by step.
Deviations from Standard Guidelines
Child support amounts may be adjusted based on the child’s specific needs, including medical or educational expenses. Understanding these deviations allows parents to seek adjustments that better fit the unique needs of their children. Texas courts may deviate from guideline calculations due to extraordinary medical costs, educational needs, or special-needs children.
These deviations ensure that the support provided is adequate and fair, accounting for any unique circumstances that might not be covered by standard guidelines. Failing to consider these factors can lead to inadequate support that doesn’t fully address the child’s needs.
Adjustments for Multiple Families
When a noncustodial parent has children from multiple relationships, the support amount may be adjusted to accommodate the financial responsibilities towards all children. Child support may be reduced based on the number of other children the noncustodial parent is responsible for, ensuring all children’s needs are considered, including any additional child support that may be necessary.
These adjustments are essential for ensuring that each child receives adequate support, irrespective of the number of households involved, including the other parent. Parents must disclose all their financial responsibilities to ensure fair support calculations.
Income Caps and Deductions
As of September 2025, Texas will increase the maximum income considered for child support calculations to $11,700. This change will impact how child support obligations are computed for higher earners. Texas law also allows deductions for necessary expenses like childcare, health insurance premiums, and union dues when calculating a parent’s net income for child support.
Deductions for certain expenses, such as medical costs and union dues, as well as medical and dental support, can lower the income amount considered for support calculations. Understanding these caps and deductions ensures the support amount reflects true financial capacity and responsibilities.
Common Mistakes in Child Support Calculation
Mistakes in Texas Child Support Calculation can have serious consequences, often leading to unfair financial obligations or even enforcement actions down the road. One of the most common errors we see is parents misreporting income—sometimes unintentionally due to confusion about what counts as “net resources,” and other times by deliberately leaving out sources of income. Under Texas Family Code § 154.062, net resources include wages, salary, self-employment income, bonuses, commissions, retirement benefits, and certain government benefits. Failing to disclose these fully, or overlooking non-traditional income like rental earnings or significant cash gifts, can result in an inaccurate child support order that doesn’t reflect reality.
Another frequent misunderstanding is the belief that child support will automatically change as life circumstances shift. In fact, under Texas Family Code §§ 156.401–156.409, modifications require a formal petition to the court. Even when income increases or decreases substantially, support obligations continue at the ordered amount until a judge approves a modification. This rule applies to both increases and decreases and may include retroactive child support adjustments. Assuming an order “self-adjusts” is a costly mistake that can create arrears or deprive a child of the support they need.
Parents can avoid these pitfalls by keeping meticulous financial records, disclosing all income sources, and seeking timely legal guidance when their financial situation changes. For custodial parents in particular, understanding the framework of support is critical. Our resource on Texas Child Support Calculation Guidelines for Custodial Parents explains how courts apply the law in practical terms, so you can better anticipate and avoid missteps.
At Bryan Fagan’s family law practice, we believe education and transparency are the foundation of fair child support outcomes. By guiding parents through the statutory requirements of the Texas Family Code and addressing common misconceptions, we help ensure that support calculations are not only accurate but also aligned with the best interests of the child. For additional clarity on the broader process, you may also find our Texas Child Support Resource helpful.
Misreporting Income
One frequent error in child support calculation is neglecting to consider all forms of income, which can lead to inaccurate support amounts. Misreporting income can result in incorrect calculations, impacting the financial support for children. Parents should compile a checklist of necessary documents, including income and expense records, to facilitate accurate child support calculations.
Maintaining accurate records of childcare and medical costs is crucial for justifying child support claims. Accurately reporting all income sources helps parents avoid legal complications and ensures fair support obligations.
Failing to Disclose All Resources
Disclosing all financial resources is essential for ensuring that child support calculations are fair and accurate. Failing to disclose all resources can lead to misreporting income, resulting in inappropriate child support amounts. Accurate documentation of income and resources helps to prevent legal complications and ensures the child’s needs are met.
Full disclosure of financial resources not only aids in fair calculations but also fosters trust and transparency between parents. This transparency is crucial for creating a supportive environment for the child’s upbringing.
Assuming Automatic Adjustments
Child support amounts do not automatically change; parents must petition the court for any modifications to existing support orders. Many mistakenly believe that child support amounts will adjust on their own over time, but modifications require a formal court order. Parents may need to receive child support payments that do not automatically adjust with changes in income; formal amendments through court orders are necessary to reflect any financial changes, including child support payment adjustments.
Changes to child support amounts aren’t automatic; legal action is necessary to modify existing agreements. This understanding helps parents avoid unexpected legal issues and ensures the support provided is fair and adequate.
Modifying Texas Child Support Orders
Child support orders in Texas can be modified if there is a significant change in circumstances or if specific time criteria are met. These modifications can address changes in income, custody arrangements, or rising medical and childcare expenses. Understanding when and how to request modifications ensures the child’s needs are consistently met.
Parents can request a modification to their child support order if there has been a significant change in circumstances since the order was established. This process helps align the support amount with the current financial and custodial realities, ensuring fairness and adequacy in meeting the child’s needs.
When to Request a Modification
Parents may request modifications due to changes such as shifts in income, custody arrangements, or rising medical and childcare expenses. A modification request is appropriate when there is a material change in circumstances, like additional children or alterations in medical insurance coverage. Recognizing these situations helps parents take timely action to adjust support amounts.
Changes in income, custody arrangements, or increases in medical and childcare expenses can justify a request for modification. Being proactive about these changes ensures that the child support amount remains fair and adequate, reflecting the current needs and financial capabilities.
The Three-Year/20%/$100 Rule
A modification can be requested if three years have passed and the existing support amount varies by at least 20% or $100 from the new guideline calculation. This rule provides a clear benchmark for parents to determine when a modification is warranted.
If three years have lapsed since the last modification, a new calculation can trigger a modification if it varies by at least 20% or $100 from the current amount.
Legal Process for Modifications
To initiate a modification, one must file a petition and may need to attend a court hearing or participate in a Child Support Review Process. This formal process ensures that any changes to the support order are legally binding and reflect the current circumstances. Parents cannot change the order through informal agreements; a legal petition is necessary.
The legal process for modifying child support includes filing a petition and possibly attending a court hearing or undergoing a negotiation process. Understanding this process helps parents take the correct steps to ensure that the child support amount is fair and reflective of current needs.
Enforcement of Child Support Orders in Texas
Ensuring that child support orders are followed is just as important as calculating them correctly. When parents fall behind or refuse to pay, the state provides several enforcement mechanisms to protect children’s well-being. As part of the Texas Child Support Calculation process, the Texas Family Code §§ 157.001–157.426 gives courts and the Texas Office of the Attorney General authority to enforce orders through a variety of tools designed to maintain accountability and ensure financial support is consistent.
These enforcement methods may include wage garnishment, where child support is automatically deducted from the noncustodial parent’s paycheck, as outlined in Texas Family Code § 158.001. Courts can also suspend state-issued licenses—such as driver’s licenses, professional licenses, or even hunting and fishing licenses—under § 232.003 when payments are delinquent. Other enforcement tools include filing liens against bank accounts and property, intercepting tax refunds, and in more serious cases, pursuing contempt of court actions that may result in fines or jail time.
While these measures are strong, they are designed with one goal in mind: ensuring children continue to receive the resources they need for housing, food, education, and healthcare. Parents should also understand that enforcement is preventable when support orders are calculated accurately and when both parties comply with disclosure requirements regarding net resources. For an in-depth look at what counts as income in Texas child support law, see our guide on Net Resources in Texas.
At Bryan Fagan’s family law practice, we emphasize that enforcement doesn’t have to be adversarial. Our attorneys regularly help parents on both sides—those seeking enforcement and those struggling to keep up with payments—by finding fair, legal solutions rooted in the Texas Family Code. Whether that involves pursuing modifications, negotiating payment plans, or petitioning the court for relief, our mission is always the same: protecting children’s futures while guiding parents with clarity and compassion. For additional insights, you can also explore our Texas Child Support Resource.
Wage Garnishment
Wage garnishment in Texas allows child support to be automatically deducted from a noncustodial parent’s paycheck. This ensures timely payments directly to the custodial parent, making it a reliable method for enforcing child support orders.
Wage garnishment allows for direct deductions from a noncustodial parent’s salary to ensure timely payment of child support.
License Suspension and Liens
Non-payment of child support can lead to the suspension of various licenses, including driver’s licenses, and the imposition of liens on property. Failure to pay child support in Texas can lead to the suspension of a parent’s driver’s license and the imposition of liens on their property.
These measures incentivize compliance and ensure that child support obligations are met.
Contempt Actions
Contempt of court actions can be initiated against noncustodial parents who fail to comply with child support orders. Legal actions for contempt can be initiated against parents who fail to adhere to child support orders.
Contempt actions may result in serious consequences, including fines or jail time for non-compliant parents, ensuring accountability.
Checklist for Parents Learning About Texas Child Support Calculation
Understanding Texas child support calculation involves gathering the right documentation and maintaining meticulous Successfully navigating a Texas Child Support Calculation requires preparation, accuracy, and transparency. Parents who stay organized and maintain thorough records are far less likely to encounter disputes or miscalculations. The Texas Family Code §§ 154.001–154.309 provides the framework for establishing support, but it is the details—income documentation, childcare costs, and healthcare records—that often determine whether a calculation is truly fair and sustainable.
The process begins with gathering proof of income. Under Texas Family Code § 154.062, “net resources” include wages, salary, bonuses, self-employment income, retirement benefits, and certain other forms of compensation, while deductions such as federal income tax and Social Security are excluded. Pay stubs, W-2s, and recent tax returns are critical to ensuring that both parents and the court are working with accurate figures. To better understand how these numbers are applied, we recommend reviewing our resource on What Is the Average Child Support for One Child, which explains how guideline percentages interact with income levels.
Beyond income, courts also look at essential expenses. Detailed records of childcare costs may qualify for consideration when determining support obligations. Similarly, medical and dental expenses, now mandated under Texas Family Code § 154.181, must be documented to ensure the child’s health needs are accounted for. Keeping receipts, invoices, and insurance statements in one organized file can make this process much smoother.
Finally, parents should consistently track child support payments through the State Disbursement Unit. This not only prevents disputes over whether payments have been made but also provides a transparent record that courts can rely on. Documenting visitation schedules alongside payments can further clarify parental responsibilities, especially when future modifications are requested under Texas Family Code §§ 156.401–156.409. For more guidance, our Texas Child Support Resource offers practical insights into managing obligations effectively.
At Bryan Fagan’s family law practice, we know that the child support process can feel overwhelming, but we also know that preparation is one of the best ways to protect your child’s financial security. By keeping organized records and understanding how the Texas Family Code applies, parents can approach this process with confidence and peace of mind.
Income Documentation
Collecting recent pay stubs, W-2 forms, and tax returns is essential for accurately reporting income for child support evaluations, including any relevant social security taxes. It is important for parents to gather various income documents such as pay stubs, W-2 forms, and tax returns to ensure complete financial disclosure.
This thorough documentation helps in determining financial obligations accurately.
Records of Childcare and Medical Expenses
Maintaining detailed records of childcare and medical expenses is crucial for ensuring accurate child support calculations and avoiding disputes. Parents should keep detailed records to justify any requests for modifications in child support, especially in cases of significant medical costs or changes in childcare expenses, including a child’s expenses.
These records ensure that all expenses are accounted for in the calculate support calculation.
Tracking Payments and Custody Schedules
Tracking child support payments through the State Disbursement Unit is vital. Utilizing tools like the State Disbursement Unit for payment tracking is crucial for clarity in child support matters.
Keeping a detailed log of all child support payments and custody schedules prevents disputes.
How Bryan Fagan’s Attorneys Can Help
Navigating a Texas Child Support Calculation can feel overwhelming, but parents don’t have to face the process alone. The attorneys at The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC are well-versed in the intricacies of the Texas Family Code §§ 154.001–154.309, which govern how support is established, enforced, and modified. From understanding net resources under § 154.062 to ensuring compliance with mandatory medical and dental support requirements in § 154.181, our legal team provides clear, practical guidance tailored to each family’s circumstances.
Whether you are establishing an initial order, seeking a modification due to a substantial change in income or custody under Texas Family Code §§ 156.401–156.409, or needing to enforce an existing order, our attorneys bring both legal expertise and compassion to every case. We know that child support isn’t just about numbers—it’s about protecting your child’s stability, educational needs, and overall future.
For parents seeking clarity, our resource on Child Support in Texas provides an overview of the state’s guidelines, updates to the law, and answers to common questions. We also recommend exploring our Texas Child Support Resource, which explains how courts apply the statutory framework in real-life scenarios.
At Bryan Fagan’s family law practice, our mission is to educate families and protect futures. By offering personalized consultations and strategic legal support, we help parents move forward with confidence, knowing their child’s needs are prioritized and their rights are safeguarded. Scheduling a consultation with one of our family law attorneys is the first step toward ensuring that your child support matter is resolved fairly and in line with the protections of the Texas Family Code.
Personalized Guidance
Bryan Fagan’s attorneys guide parents through Texas child support calculation, ensuring fairness in establishing, enforcing, or modifying support. Fairness in the child support process is crucial to ensure that both parents contribute appropriately to the well-being of their children.
Additional resources are available through internal links to blogs covering child support enforcement, modifications, and custody issues.
Case Studies and Testimonials
Case studies and testimonials provide real-life examples of successful child support outcomes, illustrating the effectiveness of expert legal guidance. Clients have expressed satisfaction with the support they received, emphasizing the firm’s ability to navigate complex child support issues effectively.
This feedback underscores the firm’s dedication to achieving accurate and enforceable support outcomes for their clients.
Call to Action
Understanding Texas child support calculations can be complex, and personalized assistance can ensure accuracy and fairness. Scheduling a consultation can provide you with tailored guidance specific to your situation.
We invite you to reach out and schedule a consultation for personalized help with Texas child support calculation.
Conclusion:
At the end of the day, child support isn’t just about numbers—it’s about making sure kids have what they need to feel secure and keep moving forward, even when life at home looks different than it used to. A fair Texas child support calculation can mean less tension between parents, more stability for children, and fewer worries about how essentials and extras will be covered. That peace of mind is something every family deserves.
If you’re in the middle of a divorce or already navigating co-parenting challenges, know that you don’t have to figure it all out alone. The laws are detailed, the paperwork is overwhelming, and emotions run high—but having an experienced Texas Family Law Attorney by your side can make the process far less stressful and a lot more clear. Our team at The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC is here to help parents protect their children’s futures with guidance that’s both legally sound and truly compassionate.
So, as you think about your own next steps, ask yourself: what kind of stability do I want my child to remember from this season of life? If your answer is “consistency, support, and security,” then you’re already on the right path. When you’re ready, reach out to us—we’re here to walk with you, advocate for you, and help ensure your child has the financial foundation they need to thrive.
Texas Child Support: Frequently Asked Questions
Court Filing Timeline for Texas Child Support
This step-by-step timeline shows how a child support case typically moves through the Texas court system. Every case is unique, so consult an attorney for personalized guidance.
Step 1: File Petition
Submit your Petition to Establish or Modify Child Support with the district clerk. Attach your Financial Information Statement and supporting documents.
Step 2: Serve the Other Parent
Provide legal notice of the petition. The other parent must be formally served unless they waive service in writing.
Step 3: Exchange Financial Documents
Both parents must disclose income, deductions, and proof of expenses. Judges will review these documents to determine net resources under §154.062.
Step 4: Mediation or Hearing
Many courts encourage mediation to reach an agreement. If no settlement is reached, the case proceeds to a child support hearing before a judge.
Step 5: Court Order Issued
The judge signs an order based on guideline percentages under §154.125, deviations if justified, and mandatory medical/dental support requirements.
Step 6: Income Withholding Begins
Child support is typically collected through wage withholding. Employers receive an Income Withholding Order (IWO) and deduct payments automatically.
Step 7: Enforcement & Modifications
If payments are missed, enforcement tools may be used, including wage garnishment, license suspension, or contempt actions. Parents may later file for modification under §156.401.
Downloadable Forms for Texas Child Support Calculation
These forms are commonly used when establishing, modifying, or enforcing child support orders in Texas. Always review with an attorney to ensure you are filing the correct form for your situation.
Income Withholding Order (IWO)
Directs an employer to withhold child support directly from wages.
Download FormPetition to Establish Child Support
Used to request an initial child support order in family court.
Download FormPetition to Modify Child Support
Used to request changes when financial circumstances or custody arrangements change.
Download FormFinancial Information Statement
Details income, deductions, and expenses to determine net resources.
Download Form
