How Texas Child Support Is Calculated
Texas child support calculations are governed by Texas Family Code Chapter 154. Texas uses the Percentage of Income Model, calculating obligations strictly based on the net resources of the non-custodial parent (obligor), rather than combining both parents' incomes.
1. Texas Statutory Guideline Base Support Formula (TFC § 154.125)
Base Child Support=Min(Net Resources, $9,200 Cap) × Statutory Child %
2. Total Order with Medical & Dental Support
Total Support Order=Base Guideline Support+Health & Dental Insurance Add-On
Step-by-Step Calculation Breakdown ($5,000 Monthly Net Resources, 2 Children)
Step 1: Determine Qualifying Monthly Net Resources
• Gross Salary minus Federal Taxes & FICA: $5,000
• Statutory Cap Check: $5,000 ≤ $9,200 statutory cap (fully applied)
• Qualifying Net Monthly Resources: $5,000 / month
Step 2: Apply Statutory Percentage for 2 Children (25%)
• Guideline Multiplier: 25.0% for 2 minor children
• Base Monthly Obligation: $5,000 × 0.25 = $1,250 / month
Step 3: Include Medical Support & Childcare Add-Ons
• Health Insurance ($200) + Childcare ($350) = $550
• Obligor 50% Add-On Share: +$275
Estimated Total Monthly Obligation: $1,525 / month
Texas Guideline Percentage Schedule (TFC § 154.125)
| Number of Children | Guideline % of Net Resources | Monthly Support on $5,000 Net |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Child | 20% | $1,000 / mo |
| 2 Children | 25% | $1,250 / mo |
| 3 Children | 30% | $1,500 / mo |
| 4 Children | 35% | $1,750 / mo |
| 5+ Children | 40% | $2,000 / mo |