Texas has established a formula to calculate what amount a non-custodial parent should pay for child support. For monthly net resources of at least $1,000 and up to the current guideline cap, the standard percentages below apply when there are no other children to support. The guideline cap increased to $11,700 in monthly net resources effective September 1, 2025. Lower-income and multiple-household cases use different rules.
- 20 percent for one child
- 25 percent for two children
- 30 percent for three children
- 35 percent for four children
- 40 percent for five children
- Not less than 40 percent for six children
Special rules apply in cases of split or joint placement or multiple children in different households. If a court believes that you are not making as much money as you should, the child support amount may be based on your earning potential. This is income that you could potentially earn.
A different formula to determine the amount of support may apply when you have multiple children in different households. It is important that you let the judge or child support master know that you support other children who have a different mother.
Support issues depend entirely on state laws. Please check your State Family Code for your state guidelines.
From the Texas Q and A Handbook for Non-Custodial Parents, Office of John Cornyn, Texas Attorney General
For the current cap, exceptions, and official references, see Texas Child Support Guidelines. The cap does not prohibit additional support based on the proven needs of the child under Section 154.126.