Calculate accurate child support estimates based on Texas guidelines
Texas uses a percentage-of-obligor’s-net-resources model under Texas Family Code § 154.125. Rather than combining both parents’ incomes, the guideline focuses on the paying parent’s monthly net resources and applies a fixed percentage based on the number of children before the court.
The standard guideline percentages are:
These percentages apply only up to a statutory cap on monthly net resources (currently $11,700). Income above the cap is not automatically subject to the guideline percentage; a court may order additional support only upon proof of the child’s proven needs.
The numbers below are illustrative only and are used to show how the pieces fit together — they are not official Texas figures or a prediction for your case.
If the same obligor had $15,000 in net resources and one child, the calculation would use the $11,700 cap: $11,700 × 20% = $2,340.
Texas applies a guideline percentage to the paying parent’s monthly net resources based on the number of children. The percentage ranges from 20% for one child to 40% for five or more children and is applied only up to the current net-resources cap of $11,700 per month.
Net resources generally start from wages, salary, self-employment earnings, bonuses, commissions, overtime, and other income sources, then subtract federal income taxes (single filer, standard deduction), Social Security and Medicare taxes, union dues, and the cost of the child’s health insurance. Texas has no state income tax, so that deduction does not apply.
It often does when the income is regular and predictable. One-time or highly variable payments may be treated differently; courts look at the reliability of the income stream.
Yes. The guideline percentage applies only up to $11,700 in monthly net resources (as of the most recent statutory update). A court can order more than the guideline amount only if the child’s specific needs are proven.
Texas allows a reduction in the guideline percentage when the obligor is already paying support for other children under a different order. The exact reduction depends on the number of other children and is set out in the Family Code.
Support typically continues until the child turns 18 or graduates from high school, whichever is later. Support can be extended for a child with a disability that requires ongoing care.
Yes. Orders can be reviewed and modified when there has been a material and substantial change in circumstances — for example, a significant change in either parent’s income, the child’s needs, or the parenting arrangement. Modifications go through the court or the Office of the Attorney General process.
Estimate only. This page is an educational tool, not legal advice. For a court-ready calculation, use the Texas Attorney General’s official monthly child support calculator or consult a Texas family-law attorney. Verify all figures against the current Texas Family Code and official guidelines.