What Should A Texas Parent Know About Child Support? 

 Posted on April 08, 2025 in Child Support

Texas divorce courts focus on the child's best interests when determining child support, parenting time, visitation, and other matters that affect the child’s well-being. One parent typically pays child support to ensure the child’s needs are fulfilled after the divorce.

Child support payments are determined by several factors that a skilled Texas divorce attorney can review with you. A Texas child support attorney at The Law Office of J. Kevin Clark P.C. can also advocate for you in child support negotiations to ensure your payments are fair and adequate for the child’s needs.

Non-Custodial Parent Net Monthly Income Matters

Child support in Texas is calculated according to the net monthly income of the parent with whom the child does not primarily live. Net income includes the parent’s salaries, wages, bonuses, commissions, tips, and any other form of income. Taxes, union dues, and medical insurance premiums are deducted from their income to arrive at the net monthly income for child support calculator purposes.

Texas uses these percentages to determine child support based on the number of children: 

• One child: 20 percent of the parent’s net monthly income

• Two children: 25 percent

• Three children: 30 percent

• Four children: 35 percent 

• Five children: 40 percent

The state caps net monthly income used for child support calculations. In 2025, the cap is $9,200 per month. If the parent’s income is higher, the court may require additional payments according to the child's needs.

Child’s Expenses and Needs Affect Child Support

The state has guidelines for determining monthly child support obligations. However, the judge can deviate from the guidelines if necessary. Some examples where the court may exercise its discretion include: 

• Medical or dental expenses, such as surgery, braces, oral surgery, etc.

• Educational expenses, such as private school or tutoring

• Extracurricular activities, such as sports, music, or art

• Disabilities or special needs requiring additional expenses

The Parent’s Ability to Pay is Considered

If the paying parent - the obligor - has a low income or a significant financial hardship, the judge may order less child support than the guidelines require. However, minimum child support payments are approximately $100 to $150 monthly.

Other Child Support Obligations are a Factor

Do you have children from a previous marriage that you financially support? If so, the percentage of income the court uses for the current situation could be reduced.

Child Support Usually Ends at Age 18

Child support obligations typically terminate when the child turns 18, but exceptions exist. For instance, the court may order additional child support after 18 if the child is still in high school. Or, child support payments may continue if the child has a disability that makes them unable to care for themselves.

Contact a Fort Worth, TX Divorce Lawyer

Child support questions can be stressful, but the assistance of a seasoned Fort Worth, TX divorce attorney makes a dramatic difference to your state of mind and financial situation. Attorney Clark is experienced in all aspects of child support legal questions and calculations, so you can rely on him for invaluable legal guidance and support. Contact The Law Office of J. Kevin Clark P.C. today for a free consultation at 817-348-6723.