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When life takes an unexpected turn—like a sudden job change, a new baby, or the rising cost of living—it’s natural to feel a ripple of uncertainty. For Texas parents sharing custody, that ripple often becomes a pressing question: How often is child support reviewed in Texas?
Take Maria, for example. After her divorce, she built a steady routine with her two kids. Three years later, she was promoted and earning more, while her ex-husband had lost his job. Their old child support order no longer fit the reality of either parent’s finances. The tension grew until Maria learned that under the Texas Family Code, child support orders can be reviewed every three years—or sooner if there’s been a significant change in circumstances. That knowledge gave her what every parent deserves: clarity, fairness, and peace of mind.
At the Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC, we help families like Maria’s find balance when life shifts unexpectedly. Founded by Bryan Joseph Fagan, a South Texas College of Law graduate and recognized authority in Texas family law, our firm approaches every case with compassion and precision. Why? Because we believe families deserve more than legal solutions—they deserve understanding, empowerment, and the freedom to move forward confidently.
In this article, you’ll learn how Texas handles child support reviews, what triggers an early modification, and how to navigate the process without unnecessary stress. Whether you’re earning more, earning less, or simply trying to keep things fair, our goal is to help you understand your rights, protect your stability, and move toward a future built on peace—not paperwork.
Key Takeaways
- Child support orders in Texas are reviewed every three years, or earlier under specific circumstances such as job loss or changes in custody arrangements.
- A legal process is required to modify child support, which involves filing a motion in court and providing necessary documentation to support the request.
- Timely requests for child support reviews are crucial to ensure adjustments are fair and reflect current financial situations, as delays can complicate the modification process.
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Standard Review Timeline for Child Support Orders in Texas
Under the Texas Family Code §156.401, parents may request a review or modification of a child support order if at least three years have passed since the last order or if there has been a material and substantial change in circumstances, such as job loss, a pay increase, or changes in custody or family size. This timeline ensures that child support reflects current financial realities while maintaining stability for both parents and children.
The three-year period is not arbitrary—it’s designed to accommodate the natural evolution of family life. Over time, children’s needs grow, parents’ incomes fluctuate, and living expenses change. By aligning with this schedule, Texas law encourages fairness and consistency, ensuring that each review supports a child’s well-being while remaining financially practical for both parents. Recent updates, including the 2025 amendment to §154.125(a-1), raise the guideline cap on net monthly resources from $9,200 to $11,700, giving courts and the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) updated parameters for calculating support.
Parents seeking a review can start by submitting the official Request for Administrative Review Form through the OAG or filing a motion with the court. Whether you’re facing reduced income, increased expenses, or a major life change, understanding how often child support is reviewed in Texas empowers you to take timely action and avoid financial strain.
At The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC, our family law attorneys help Texas parents navigate every step of the review process with clarity and compassion. We ensure your child support orders stay fair, current, and legally sound under Texas law. To learn more about child support modifications and enforcement, explore our in-depth resource on Texas Child Support Enforcement and Modification.
Exceptions for Earlier Modifications
While the standard review timeline is every three years, there are specific circumstances under which a child support order can be modified earlier. Significant changes in life, such as a job loss, incarceration, or a substantial decline in income, can justify an earlier review and modification. These exceptions ensure that child support amounts reflect the current financial realities of both parents.
For instance, a parent can request a modification to lower the child support payments in the following situations:
- Losing their job or experiencing a significant reduction in income, which may have decreased their ability to pay
- Changes in custody arrangements
- Increased childcare costs due to changes in the child’s education or care needs, which may lead a parent to modify child support.
These situations can also warrant an earlier review.
Recognizing these exceptions helps parents seek fair adjustments to their child support obligations, keeping the child support guidelines aligned with the family’s current situation.
Common Situations That Warrant a Child Support Review
Life changes quickly—jobs shift, incomes fluctuate, and family dynamics evolve. When that happens, parents often wonder how often child support is reviewed in Texas and what circumstances might justify a new evaluation. According to Texas Family Code §156.401, either parent may request a modification if at least three years have passed since the current order was signed, or sooner if there’s been a material and substantial change in circumstances. These changes can include job loss, a significant pay raise, adjustments to parenting time, or new financial obligations related to the child’s care.
A change in income—whether an increase or a decrease—is one of the most common reasons parents seek a review. For example, if one parent loses employment or takes a lower-paying job, they may be eligible for reduced payments. Conversely, if the paying parent’s income rises substantially, the other parent can request an increase. Shifts in custody arrangements, such as when one parent begins spending more overnight time with the child, can also influence how much support is owed. These reviews ensure that financial contributions remain balanced and fair for both parents.
As of September 1, 2025, an update to Texas Family Code §154.125(a-1) increases the maximum cap on net monthly resources from $9,200 to $11,700, directly impacting how guideline support is calculated. This change helps ensure that support amounts remain current with Texas’ evolving economic conditions. To better understand whether your situation qualifies for a review, visit our comprehensive guide on child support review eligibility in Texas.
At The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC, our experienced family law attorneys help parents navigate the review process with confidence and compassion. We know that every family’s circumstances are unique, and we’re committed to finding solutions that protect your child’s needs and your financial stability. For additional insight into modifications and enforcement, explore our detailed Texas Child Support Resource.
The Legal Process for Requesting a Child Support Modification
In Texas, any change to a child support order must be approved through the legal system—private agreements between parents are not enforceable without court approval. According to Texas Family Code §156.401, a parent seeking to modify child support must file a formal motion in the same court that issued the existing order, clearly explaining the material and substantial change in circumstances that justifies the modification. Understanding how often child support is reviewed in Texas is crucial, as the law typically allows for review every three years or sooner if significant changes have occurred, such as income adjustments, custody modifications, or changes in a child’s medical or educational needs.
Before granting a modification, the court examines detailed financial and personal documentation from both parents to ensure the child’s best interests are protected. This includes proof of income, healthcare costs, tax records, and any evidence of changing family dynamics. The process also considers updates to Texas Family Code §154.125(a-1)—effective September 1, 2025—which increases the cap on net monthly resources from $9,200 to $11,700. This update directly impacts how Texas courts calculate and adjust support amounts during review.
Once a motion is filed, the court or the Texas Office of the Attorney General (OAG) reviews the evidence. If the modification is uncontested and aligns with statutory guidelines, it may be approved without a full hearing. However, if the other parent disputes the change or if financial evidence is unclear, a court hearing is typically scheduled. Only after judicial approval do changes become legally binding and enforceable.
At The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC, our attorneys guide parents through every step of the modification process, ensuring filings are accurate, timely, and fully compliant with Texas law. Whether you are seeking to increase, decrease, or defend a child support modification, our firm provides both the legal experience and compassionate support needed to protect your family’s future. To learn more about child support modification, eligibility, and enforcement, visit our Texas Child Support Resource or read our in-depth article on Texas Child Support Enforcement and Modification.
Required Documentation
Requesting a child support modification requires gathering essential documents such as:
- Financial statements
- Recent pay stubs
- Tax returns
- Proof of childcare expenses
- Custody agreements
Providing comprehensive documentation helps the court accurately assess the financial situation and make a fair determine.
Both parents must also verify their income, health insurance details, and residential addresses during the modification process. This verification ensures all relevant material information is considered, protecting the interests of both the child and the child’s parents, as well as one child and kids.
The process typically includes submitting a request, providing documentation, review by a specialist, and possible negotiation or court proceedings.
Filing the Request
Filing a modification request involves:
- Providing a thorough explanation of the reasons for the request and the desired changes.
- Filing the motion with the Office of the Attorney General’s Child Support Division or through a family law attorney.
- Accurately presenting the reasons for the modification to help ensure fair consideration of the request.
If one parent suspects the other is intentionally earning less to reduce child support payments, proving this can be tricky and may complicate the modification process. Presenting a well-documented and compelling case is crucial to support the requested changes.
Outcomes After a Child Support Review
The outcome of a child support review depends on each family’s unique circumstances and the financial realities of both parents. In Texas, reviews are guided by Texas Family Code §156.401, which allows modifications when at least three years have passed since the last order or when there has been a material and substantial change in circumstances. Understanding how often child support is reviewed in Texas is essential for parents seeking fairness and accuracy in their financial responsibilities. Courts may approve an increase, decrease, or no change at all, depending on the evidence presented and the child’s ongoing needs.
For instance, if a parent’s income has significantly increased, the court may raise the support amount to align with updated financial resources. Conversely, if the paying parent now has more overnight parenting time or a reduction in income, a decrease in support may be warranted. Sometimes, the court may determine that no modification is necessary if the existing order still reflects the child’s best interests and the parents’ financial situations. These decisions are grounded in fairness and the principles outlined in the Texas Family Code §§154.125 and 156.401, which ensure that support orders remain balanced and appropriate.
At The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC, our clients have experienced life-changing outcomes through timely reviews. One client saw his monthly obligation reduced after proving substantial changes in income, while another secured a significant credit for overpaid support once evidence showed the child had been living primarily in his care. These cases highlight why acting quickly matters—Texas courts generally do not apply changes retroactively before a modification is filed. Parents who delay risk missing out on rightful adjustments and may face continued payments that no longer reflect their true circumstances.
To learn more about the Texas three-year review rule for modifications and what steps to take, explore our detailed guide, Understanding the Texas Child Support Three-Year Review Rule for Modifications. Our experienced attorneys help families navigate this process with compassion and precision, ensuring every child support order reflects current realities while protecting what matters most. For additional insights into modification and enforcement, visit our Texas Child Support Resource.
Importance of Timely Requests
Requesting timely reviews of child support is vital for ensuring fair adjustments to support payments. Delays in requesting child support reviews can lead to complications, such as ongoing payments that do not reflect current circumstances. This can create financial strain and inequity, impacting both the parents and the child.
Timely requests help ensure that adjustments to child support amounts are equitable and aligned with financial changes. Client success stories show that families who act promptly often achieve fair child support adjustments through timely reviews.
Monitoring changes in circumstances and requesting reviews as soon as a significant change or a substantial change occurs is crucial.
How a Texas Child Support Attorney Can Help
Working with an experienced Texas family law attorney can make all the difference when navigating the complexities of the child support review process. Understanding how often child support is reviewed in Texas and how to properly request one requires both legal precision and compassionate guidance. Under Texas Family Code §156.401, a child support order may be reviewed every three years or sooner if a material and substantial change in circumstances has occurred—such as job loss, income changes, or new custody arrangements. An attorney ensures these reviews are handled correctly, protecting both your rights and your child’s best interests.
A skilled Texas child support attorney can accurately calculate payment adjustments by evaluating income, medical insurance, educational expenses, and other financial obligations. They prepare the necessary legal documentation, help file requests—such as the official Request for Administrative Review Form—and guide clients through every step of the administrative or court process. This ensures that all filings comply with state law and the latest updates to Texas Family Code §154.125(a-1), which, as of September 1, 2025, raises the maximum net resource cap for guideline child support from $9,200 to $11,700 per month.
When parents disagree about whether a modification is justified, an attorney’s advocacy becomes especially valuable. If negotiations through the Texas Office of the Attorney General’s Child Support Division fail, your attorney can represent you before the court, presenting evidence and testimony to support your position. This professional representation helps ensure that outcomes remain fair, legally sound, and focused on your child’s long-term well-being.
At The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC, our attorneys have successfully helped thousands of Texas families through child support reviews and modifications. We combine legal knowledge with genuine compassion, ensuring that every client is informed, prepared, and protected under Texas law. To learn more about modifications, enforcement, and your rights as a parent, explore our Texas Child Support Resource.
Client Success Stories
Client success stories serve as powerful examples of how timely and accurate child support reviews can lead to fair adjustments that meet the changing needs of families. One such success involved a client who avoided suspension of their insurance license due to a clerical error, resolved swiftly through attorney intervention.
Another example is a father who successfully eliminated a $30,000 judgment against him, proving it was void and alleviating a significant financial burden. These stories highlight the importance of seeking professional help and acting promptly to ensure fair child support arrangements, as a judge may play a crucial role in these decisions.
Resources and Links
To further assist you in navigating the child support review process, here are some valuable resources and links. The Office of the Attorney General or a private attorney can conduct child support reviews in Texas. These reviews are essential to ensure that payment rates are fair and based on current circumstances.
For more information and more support, consider reaching out to the Law Office of Bryan Fagan PLLC or visiting their website. These resources offer additional guidance on the factors that influence child support reviews, such as net resources, income, family circumstances, and financial support.
Conclusion:
When life changes—and it always does—your family’s needs change right along with it. Whether it’s a new job, a move, or a shift in responsibilities, child support should evolve to match your reality, not hold you back. Understanding when and how to review it isn’t just about legal boxes to check; it’s about keeping your household steady and your peace of mind intact.
At the Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC, we know these transitions aren’t just legal—they’re deeply personal. That’s why our team focuses on more than statutes and paperwork. We focus on people. We help you make sense of Texas law, advocate for fairness, and guide you toward solutions that protect your future and your family’s well-being.
If you’re wondering whether it’s time to revisit your child support order, consider this your sign to start the conversation. You don’t have to face it alone. Our Houston-based attorneys are ready to walk you through every step with clarity, compassion, and the confidence that comes from years of experience in Texas family law.
Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about child support—it’s about supporting your life moving forward. And that’s something worth taking action on today.
Frequently Asked Questions
In Texas, you can typically request a review every three years. However, if there’s been a major change—like a job loss, a big raise, or new childcare expenses—you can request an earlier review. If your payment would differ from the guideline amount by 20% or $100, you may qualify for modification under the Texas Family Code.
You can request a review through the Office of the Attorney General’s Child Support Review Process (administrative) or by filing a motion in court. Both parents will need to provide income information, proof of childcare and insurance costs, and details of any custody changes. If both parents agree, a new order can be signed. If not, a court hearing will decide.
Child support isn’t automatically recalculated. It happens when a parent or the Attorney General’s office requests it. Most reviews occur around the three-year mark or when a major change in income or custody happens.
While the Office of the Attorney General may periodically review cases, most reviews happen only if a parent asks. The standard review window is every three years unless a substantial change in circumstances occurs sooner.
No. Texas does not automatically review child support orders. You must request a review if your financial or family situation changes. If you wait, the court usually won’t apply adjustments retroactively to cover the period before you filed.
Starting September 1, 2025, the Texas Family Code increases the child support cap from $9,200 to $11,700 in net monthly resources. This means the guideline percentages for child support will now be applied to a higher income ceiling, potentially increasing support in higher-earning households.
The biggest mistake is putting personal conflict above the child’s needs. Courts value stability and cooperation. Badmouthing the other parent or failing to follow court orders can hurt your case. Focus on your child’s well-being, communication, and compliance with the law.
Collect updated income documents, proof of expenses, and custody changes. Then file a review request with the Texas Attorney General or a motion with the court. A judge or OAG officer will review the evidence and decide if modification is appropriate.
The “six-month rule” usually refers to residency and jurisdiction. For custody, Texas must be the child’s home state for at least six months before it can issue or modify custody orders. For divorce, one spouse must live in Texas for six months and in their county for 90 days before filing.
