When you've filled in the boxes and clicked on the calculate button, you'll get a rough estimate of the amount of child support. Usually, the noncustodial parent (the parent with the least amount of time with the child) will pay support to the custodial parent.
You may also use the official Texas Monthly Child Support Calculator to calculate the amount of support under the current Texas child support guidelines when the noncustodial parent has a single source of income.
Under the Texas guidelines, child support is based on a percentage of the paying parent's monthly net resources. The exact percentage depends on the number of children being supported, as well as whether the parent qualifies for the low-income guidelines. (Tex. Fam. Code § 154.125 (2022).)
The state presumes that the amount calculated under the guidelines is in the children's best interests, but you may argue that a different amount would be better in your situation. Whether you and the child's other parent have agreed on a support amount that departs from the guideline or a judge decides for you, the judge will have to find that applying the guidelines would be unjust or inappropriate under the circumstances. (Tex. Fam. Code § 154.122 (2022).)
Learn more about how child support works in Texas, including factors judges must consider when deviating from the guidelines and which expenses are deducted from gross income to determine net resources.
Typically, you'll apply for child support as part of the process of filing for divorce in Texas.
If you aren't married to your child's other parent, you may get help with requesting support by applying for child support services from the Child Support Division of the Texas Office of the Attorney General (OAG). If needed, the OAG may help establish the child's legal paternity (or parentage).
If you're having trouble collecting support payments, the Texas OAG can also help enforce child-support orders.
Either parent may request a change (modification) in the amount of child support in Texas. But you'll need to demonstrate that there has been a substantial change of circumstances that affect a parent's ability to pay support or the child's need for support.
You may request a review of your current child support order from the Texas OAG to determine if a modification is warranted.
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