How Texas calculates child support
Texas uses the percentage of income model — only the non-custodial parent's income is used to calculate child support. The custodial parent's income does not directly affect the calculation.
Texas guideline percentages
| Children | Percentage of net income |
|---|---|
| 1 child | 20.00% |
| 2 children | 25.00% |
| 3 children | 30.00% |
| 4 children | 35.00% |
| 5 or more | 40.00% |
These percentages apply to the first $11,700 of monthly net resources. Income above that threshold may be subject to additional support at the court's discretion. Texas uses net resources — gross income minus federal income tax, Social Security, Medicare, and health insurance premiums for the children.
Add-ons
Healthcare and childcare costs are added on top of the base percentage obligation in Texas, divided between the parents in proportion to their incomes.