Picture this: it’s a Friday night, and you’re standing in the grocery store aisle staring at the mountain of snack options your kids begged for all week. Divorce or not, the snacks still have to be bought, the lights kept on, and the soccer cleats paid for. That’s where Texas Family Law Child Support Guidance becomes more than just a legal term—it’s the framework that makes sure both parents share the responsibility of keeping everyday life running smoothly for their children.

Here’s the simple truth: child support in Texas is guided by the law, but the real heart of it is ensuring your kids’ lives remain stable—whether that means covering groceries, healthcare, or the activities that make childhood feel normal. The way support is calculated and enforced can determine how easily your family adjusts to life after divorce.

In this article, we’ll give you more than just statutes and guidelines. You’ll get practical tips you can use right now, legal insights most parents don’t realize, and real stories from families who’ve faced the same challenges you might be dealing with today. At The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC, our mission is simple: to educate families and protect futures. Keep reading to learn how child support can be a tool to create stability at home—even when everything else feels uncertain.

Key Takeaways

• Texas child support laws are governed by the Texas Family Code, specifically outlining the obligations of custodial and non-custodial parents regarding financial support.
• Calculations for child support in Texas are based on the obligor’s net monthly income, with specified percentages designated for one, two, or three children, ensuring that children’s needs are met.
• Parents in Texas must also cover additional costs such as medical, dental support, and childcare, and can seek modifications to child support orders if there are material changes in circumstances.

Your Family’s Future Starts Here

Don’t navigate your legal journey alone. Schedule a consultation now and get the clarity and support you deserve.

Get started

Texas Child Support Laws: An Overview

The foundation of child support orders in Texas is firmly established by the Texas Family Code, specifically Chapter 154, which sets out how parents must meet their financial responsibilities to their children. This statutory framework is reviewed regularly to reflect economic realities, with oversight from the Texas Office of the Attorney General (OAG), the agency tasked with ensuring that guidelines remain current and fair. For families seeking clarity, Texas Family Law Child Support Guidance provides both the structure and reassurance that children’s needs will be met consistently.

In practice, the custodial parent—commonly referred to as the obligee—has the legal right to receive child support payments. This parent typically has primary possession of the child, meaning the child resides with them the majority of the time. The noncustodial parent, or obligor, is legally responsible for making regular support payments, even if unemployed or underemployed. These payments are not optional; they are binding obligations under the Texas Family Code and serve to protect the child’s well-being.

Child support payments cover a wide range of essential needs. From food and housing to education and healthcare, the purpose is to safeguard a child’s standard of living regardless of the parents’ living arrangements. Understanding these fundamentals is vital for parents navigating the legal process. For a deeper dive into how Texas calculates support obligations, you can review our comprehensive resource: Understanding the Child Support Formula in Texas.

At the Law Office of Bryan Fagan, we know that financial stability directly impacts a child’s future. That’s why we provide resources beyond the basics. For example, our Texas Child Support Resource offers detailed insights into enforcement, modification, and the practical steps parents can take to protect their children. With each case, our attorneys focus on education, compassion, and advocacy to ensure parents are empowered to make informed decisions that honor both their legal duties and their child’s best interests.

Calculating Child Support in Texas

Calculating child support in Texas is governed by the Texas Family Code, Chapter 154, which establishes a clear framework for determining obligations based on the obligor’s net monthly income. Under these statutory guidelines, child support for one child is generally set at 20% of the obligor’s net resources, 25% for two children, and 30% for three children, with incremental increases for additional children. Net resources, as defined by Section 154.062 of the Texas Family Code, include the obligor’s annual gross income minus allowable deductions such as federal income tax, Social Security, and the cost of health insurance for the child. For a detailed explanation, see our in-depth guide: How to Calculate Net Resources for Child Support.

Courts also have discretion to deviate from these percentages when warranted. For example, if a child’s proven needs exceed the standard guideline amount, the court may order additional support to cover those expenses. In situations where reliable income information is unavailable, courts may estimate net resources based on earning potential, current wages in the community, or available job opportunities. This ensures that child support remains fair and aligned with a child’s best interests, even in challenging circumstances.

Understanding the principles behind Texas Family Law Child Support Guidance is essential for both custodial and non-custodial parents. These calculations not only provide predictability but also protect children by ensuring their financial needs are met consistently, regardless of parental circumstances. At the Law Office of Bryan Fagan, we believe in equipping families with the knowledge they need to navigate this process confidently. For more resources, visit our Texas Child Support Resource to explore enforcement options, modifications, and strategies for protecting your child’s future.

Additional Obligations: Medical and Childcare Costs

In addition to the basic child support payments, parents in Texas have extra obligations for medical and dental support. This includes providing health insurance and covering medical expenses not covered by insurance. Courts can mandate a parent to either provide health insurance or compensate the other parent for the cost of health insurance for the child.

Uninsured medical expenses are another critical component. In Texas, parents typically share these costs equally. Medical and dental support payments must be made through the Texas Child Support Disbursement Unit to ensure proper tracking and accountability.

Child support payments are intended to cover a range of essential expenses, including education and healthcare, ensuring that the child’s comprehensive needs are met. Understanding these additional obligations is vital for parents as they navigate their child support payment responsibilities.

Adequately covering medical and child care expenses allows parents to provide a stable and healthy environment for their children, adhering to the true spirit of child support guidelines.

Seeking Modifications to Child Support Orders

Life is full of changes, and sometimes those changes necessitate modifications to child support orders. Parents should seek modifications when there is a material change in circumstances, such as significant income fluctuations, changes in custody arrangements, or new expenses related to the child’s care. It’s crucial to act promptly because failing to file for modifications quickly can lead to unnecessary financial burdens.

In Texas, modifications can be requested through the Child Support Review Process or a court hearing. Eligibility for a review requires the order to be over three years old and the current child support amount to differ by at least 20% or $100 from the guideline amount. This three-year/20%/$100 rule helps ensure that child support orders remain fair and reflective of the current financial situation.

It’s important to remember that only one modification request should be submitted at a time to avoid processing delays. Utilizing the modification process helps parents ensure their child support obligations are fair and adaptable to life’s inevitable changes.

Retroactive Child Support in Texas

Retroactive child support can be ordered in Texas if the obligor has not been paying support, and several factors are considered:

• The obligor’s net resources
• Attempts to inform paternity
• Undue hardship
• Any prior support provided

If there was no existing order or the obligor was not involved in previous support litigation, retroactive support can be claimed.

In Texas, retroactive child support can apply to the period before the petition date, including:

• A span of up to four years.
• Courts may backdate support payments to the date of separation if no prior support order exists.
• Termination of parental rights does not erase back child support obligations.

These provisions ensure that children receive the financial support they need, even if there have been lapses in formal support arrangements. Both custodial and non-custodial parents should understand the implications of retroactive child support and may need to order retroactive child support.

Special Cases: Disabled Children and Adult Support

Child support for a disabled child in Texas can continue indefinitely if certain criteria are met. The disability must require substantial care and be known to exist before the child’s 18th birthday. When determining support for an adult disabled child, a judge considers the child’s needs, the parents’ financial capacity, and available government benefits.

Parents or individuals with court-ordered custody have several options for supporting a disabled adult child:

• Sue for the support of the disabled adult child.
• Establish a special needs trust as an alternative support option.
• Have a court designate a guardian to manage the adult child’s physical custody or independent living arrangements.

These special cases highlight the importance of tailored support solutions to meet the unique needs of disabled children and adults. By understanding these provisions, parents can ensure that their children receive the necessary care and support throughout their lives, including medical support from a Title IV D agency and protective services.

Common Mistakes in Child Support Cases

Navigating child support cases can be challenging, and common mistakes can complicate the process. Allowing emotions to guide decisions often leads to poor choices affecting child custody and support arrangements. For example, parents may argue financial hardship when facing claims for retroactive child support, complicating enforcement.

Incomplete financial disclosures are another common mistake. Providing accurate and complete financial resources information is crucial for ensuring fair child support calculations. Additionally, parents should act quickly to request modifications when their circumstances change. Waiting too long can lead to financial burdens and missed opportunities for adjustment.

By avoiding these common pitfalls, parents can navigate the child support process more effectively, ensuring fair and manageable arrangements to pay child support.

Checklist for Parents Seeking Child Support Guidance

For parents seeking child support guidance, having a checklist can be incredibly helpful. Start by gathering all relevant financial documents, including pay stubs, tax returns, and bank statements. Documentation of childcare costs, such as daycare receipts, extracurricular activity fees, and educational expenses, is also essential.

Tracking healthcare expenses, including insurance premiums and medical bills, helps establish support needs. Maintaining a record of all child support payments, including dates and amounts, can avoid disputes in the future.

Additionally, documenting visitation schedules accurately can provide important context in child support discussions and legal proceedings. By following this checklist, parents can ensure they have all the necessary information to support their child support claims and navigate the process smoothly.

Legal Guidance vs. Office of the Attorney General Services

While the Office of the Attorney General provides essential child support services, there are significant benefits to seeking personalized legal guidance. Family law attorneys, like those at Bryan Fagan’s legal team, offer tailored solutions based on individual circumstances, unlike the standardized approach of the OAG. Engaging with seasoned attorneys can help parents navigate the complexities of child support laws specific to Texas.

Legal representation can assist in contested child support cases, offering a strategic advantage that OAG services may lack. Bryan Fagan’s team emphasizes the importance of legal guidance to ensure fair child support arrangements are reached.

Personalized legal advice can aid in understanding individual obligations and rights regarding child support in Texas. Scheduling a consultation with an experienced family law attorney can provide clarity on the child support process and offer strategies tailored to a family’s specific situation.

Case Studies: Success Stories from Bryan Fagan’s Legal Team

Effective child support guidance is crucial for families to secure financial stability and minimize conflict during challenging times. Bryan Fagan’s legal team has numerous anonymized success stories where they helped families navigate child support complexities.

Families that utilized Bryan Fagan’s guidance reported improved financial arrangements and enhanced co-parenting dynamics, especially in situations involving more than one household. These success stories highlight the value of professional legal assistance in achieving favorable outcomes in child support cases.

Call to Action: Schedule a Consultation Today

Navigating child support issues can be complex and challenging. Scheduling a consultation with experienced family law attorneys ensures your family receives the legal support it deserves. Bryan Fagan’s attorneys are dedicated to providing customized legal support focused on Texas family law and child support matters.

We invite you to schedule a consultation today. Navigating the complexities of Texas family law and child support issues requires personalized legal guidance. Let us help you secure the financial stability and support your family needs.

Conclusion:

Life after divorce is rarely simple, but the way child support is handled can make all the difference in how smoothly your family moves forward. At its core, support isn’t about paperwork or percentages—it’s about making sure your children have the consistency and care they need to feel secure, whether that means groceries in the fridge, a safe place to call home, or the chance to keep enjoying the little routines that make them feel like kids.

If you’ve found yourself wondering whether your current arrangement truly meets your family’s needs, or if you’re simply looking for reassurance that you’re doing things the right way, know that you don’t have to figure it all out alone. Working with an experienced Texas Family Law Attorney can give you both clarity and peace of mind, ensuring the decisions being made today protect your children’s tomorrow.

At The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC, we believe in educating families and protecting futures. That means giving you the tools to make smart choices and standing beside you when the legal waters feel overwhelming. So, whether you’re double-checking a child support order or just trying to decide how to balance those grocery store snack requests, remember—you don’t have to carry the weight of these decisions on your own. When you’re ready, we’re here to help guide you forward with confidence and care.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the new law in Texas about child support?

As of September 1, 2025, Texas implemented updates under House Bill C.S.H.B. 2643 that changed the child support income cap used in guideline calculations and revised how net resources are considered. For example, the cap on a parent’s monthly net resources for guideline support has been raised, which may lead to larger support obligations in higher-income cases. These changes affect both new and, upon modification, existing orders. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}

What are the rules for child support in Texas?

Texas rules for child support are governed by Chapter 154 of the Texas Family Code. The court may order either or both parents to support a child until age 18 or high school graduation (whichever is later), unless the child is disabled, in which case support may continue indefinitely. The amount is calculated based on the obligor’s net monthly income, using guideline percentages (e.g. 20% for one child, 25% for two, 30% for three). Deductions, additional expenses such as medical insurance, childcare, special needs, and deviations under Texas Family Code § 154.123 are also considered. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}

What is the family law code for child support in Texas?

The primary source is Texas Family Code Chapter 154, which covers Support of Child, guidelines for calculating support, enforcement, modification, medical support, and related matters. Provisions such as § 154.001 (support of child), § 154.061 (net resources), § 154.125 (guideline percentages), § 154.123 (additional factors) are key sections. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}

What is the family code 154.123 in Texas?

Texas Family Code § 154.123 is titled “Additional Factors for Court to Consider.” Under that section, the court may deviate from guideline child support amounts if evidence rebuts the presumption that the standard guideline amount is in the best interest of the child. The statute lists many factors the court must consider, including the age and needs of the child, parents’ ability to contribute, time of possession, financial resources, special or extraordinary expenses, employment status, healthcare expenses, and more. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}

What is the deadbeat dad law in Texas?

“Deadbeat dad law” is not an official statute in Texas, but a colloquial term referring to enforcement laws in the Family Code and state law that deal with parents who fail to pay court-ordered child support. Texas law includes enforcement mechanisms (like wage garnishment, license suspension, liens, etc.) and criminal penalties under Penal Code § 25.05 (“Criminal Nonsupport”) for parents who intentionally or knowingly fail to provide support. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}

How much back child support is a felony in Texas?

In Texas, unpaid child support can become a criminal matter (“Criminal Nonsupport”) under Penal Code § 25.05 if a parent intentionally or knowingly fails to provide support for a child under 18 or pursuant to a court order. Whether it becomes a felony (state jail felony) depends on the facts—such as the amount owed, duration of non-payment, and ability to pay. For example, cases owing over certain thresholds and for extended periods may lead to felony charges. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}

How much is child support for 1 kids in Texas?

Under current Texas guidelines, support for one child is generally 20% of the obligor’s net monthly income. However, there is now a higher cap on net income for guideline calculations effective September 1, 2025, which increases the maximum guideline support amount for one child. For instance, with the new cap, the maximum monthly support for one child can reach about $2,340/month under guideline rules when the obligor’s net income is at or above the cap. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}

How to not pay child support in Texas?

There is no lawful way to simply refuse to pay child support in Texas. Even if parents share custody or claim hardship, the court may require payment, and enforcement mechanisms are strong. If circumstances change (job loss, income reduction), one may apply for modification of the support order or request a review through the Child Support Review Process, but the obligation remains until changed by a court. :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}

Do you have to pay child support if you have 50/50 custody in Texas?

Yes, having a 50/50 possession schedule does not automatically eliminate child support obligations in Texas. Courts consider income differences, the child’s needs, and other factors even with equal time sharing. Sometimes child support is offset rather than completely canceled. :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}