Child support ensures that the financial needs of children are met following a divorce. Texas has specific guidelines for calculating child support, taking into account factors such as the non-custodial parent’s income, the number of children, and other financial responsibilities.

1. Calculating Child Support in Texas
   • Percentage of Income: Texas uses a percentage-based formula, applying a specific percentage to the non-custodial parent’s net monthly income depending on the number of children.
     • One child: 20% of net income
     • Two children: 25% of net income
     • Three children: 30% of net income
     • Four children: 35% of net income
     • Five children or more: 40% of net income
   • Maximum Net Income Cap: For 2023, Texas caps the non-custodial parent’s income at $9,200 monthly when calculating support, with adjustments based on higher income possible for special needs or private education expenses.
2. Factors Impacting Child Support
   • Additional Support Needs: If the child has special medical or educational needs, the court may increase support payments.
   • Shared Custody Arrangements: In cases where custody is shared relatively equally, the court may adjust support obligations accordingly.
   • Other Financial Obligations: Existing child support payments for children from previous relationships may influence the amount calculated.
3. Health Insurance and Medical Expenses
   • Medical Support Requirement: Texas requires the custodial parent or non-custodial parent to provide health insurance for the child if it is affordable.
   • Uninsured Medical Costs: Uncovered expenses, such as co-pays, medications, and therapy, are often split between parents as part of the child support agreement.

Enforcement and Modification of Child Support and Custody Orders

1. Enforcement of Child Support
   • Texas Attorney General’s Office: The Attorney General’s Office can assist custodial parents in enforcing child support orders, using methods like wage garnishment, license suspension, and tax refund interception.
   • Legal Action for Delinquent Payments: If a parent fails to pay, the custodial parent can pursue legal action, potentially resulting in penalties or jail time for the delinquent parent.
2. Modifying Child Support
   • Substantial Change in Circumstances: If either parent’s financial situation changes significantly (e.g., job loss or salary increase), they may request a modification to the child support order.
   • Three-Year Review: Texas law permits a modification request if three years have passed since the last order and the new amount would differ by $100 or 20% from the previous order.
3. Modifying Custody and Visitation Arrangements
   • Best Interests Standard: Like initial custody orders, any modification must align with the child’s best interests, requiring significant proof of changed circumstances.
   • Reasons for Modification: Common reasons include relocation, changes in the child’s needs, or evidence that the current arrangement no longer serves the child’s best interests.