Unlike child custody, the process of determining child support in Texas is straightforward. The state uses a formula that will determine how much child support you will pay or receive, based on your net income and the number of children you support. Courts can vary from the guidelines in special circumstances.
If you would like to know how much child support you will pay or receive after divorce, we offer a free initial consultation to explain how the formula works.
What Is the Texas Child Support Formula?
In Texas, the amount of child support is based on the net income of the payer. It begins at 20 percent for one child and increases 5 percent for every child thereafter, up to a maximum of 50 percent of net income.
Courts can order more child support if a child has special needs. If the payer has a lot of debt or other financial circumstances that make it extremely difficult to pay child support, courts can order lower payments.
If the parents are joint managing conservators and have a 50-50 possession order, courts may not require child support payments if the parents' earnings are equal.
When Can Child Support Be Modified?
Child support can be modified every three years if certain conditions are met. Child support can also be modified if there has been a material and substantial change of circumstances. As a payer, you can seek a reduction in child support if you have lost your job or been forced to take a lower paying job. As a receiver, you can seek an increase in child support if the payer's earnings have increased substantially.
A Lawyer-Client Relationship Based on Trust
To discuss your concerns about child support with an experienced family law attorney, call 210-4456-9088 today or fill out the contact form on this Web site. Your initial consultation is free.