How much is child support in Texas?

Child support in Texas often raises urgent questions for parents who plan for life after separation or divorce. State law sets clear guidelines, yet each family’s numbers may look different. In many cases, courts look to a standard formula under the Texas Family Code to estimate a fair monthly amount.

How are child support amounts calculated?

Texas courts usually start with the paying parent’s net monthly income. Net income may include wages, commissions, bonuses and certain benefits. After taxes and other allowed deductions, the court applies a percentage based on the number of children.

Judges also consider factors that might justify an adjustment. For example, they may review:

• The child’s medical or educational needs
• The cost of health insurance and dental coverage
• Whether the paying parent supports other children in different households

These details can influence the final amount. For instance, if a parent already pays support for a child from a previous relationship, the state slightly lowers the percentages below to help ensure fair support for every child.

What is the child support percentage in Texas?

Texas uses a percentage model. The court generally applies a set percentage to the paying parent’s net resources. The percentage increases as the number of children rises. However, the law also sets a cap on the amount of income subject to these percentages. As of the latest 2025-2026 adjustments, this cap is $11,700 per month. For parents earning more than this, the percentages usually only apply to that first $11,700.

How much is child support for 1 child in Texas?

For one child, the guideline amount typically equals 20% of the paying parent’s net monthly income. For instance, if net resources total $4,000 per month, the guideline amount would likely equal $800. However, if that parent earns less than $1,000 per month, the court may use a special low-income rate of 15% instead.

How much is child support for 2 children in Texas?

For two children, the percentage usually rises to 25% of net monthly income. Using the same $4,000 example, support might equal $1,000 per month, provided the parent has no other children to support elsewhere.

How much is child support for 3 children in Texas?

For three children, courts often apply for 30% of net monthly income. For parents with four children, the rate is 35% and for five or more, it is 40%.

FAQs

1. What is the maximum child support amount in Texas?

Texas limits how much income counts toward these percentages. Lawmakers review and adjust this cap from time to time to keep pace with inflation. For 2026, the maximum guideline support for one child (based on the $11,700 cap) is $2,340 per month. While courts can order more for “proven needs” like expensive medical care, they rarely exceed this guideline for standard expenses.

2. What is the average child support payment in Texas?

No single average fits every family. Payments vary widely based on income and the number of children. While many orders fall between several hundred and $1,500 per month, higher earners may pay over $2,000 per child under the current 2026 caps. Each case depends on the specific financial picture of the parents.

Planning with clearer expectations

Texas child support follows a structured formula, yet individual facts still matter. Parents who understand the current guideline percentages, the recent 2026 income caps and how “multiple family” rules apply often approach the process with more realistic expectations about what a court may order. For specific guidance on your situation, contact the child support attorneys at Izzo & Associates for a free consultation.