Texas Child Support Calculator
Estimate Texas child support using the state guideline percentages of monthly net resources, with the current 11,700 dollar net resources cap applied.
Updated 2026-06-14 · Free · No sign-up · Runs privately in your browser
Show the formula & steps
How the Texas Child Support Calculator Works
Texas uses a simple percentage-of-income model. The paying (noncustodial) parent owes a set percentage of their monthly net resources, based on the number of children before the court. Enter your monthly net resources and the number of children, and the calculator applies the state guideline from Texas Family Code section 154.125.
The Formula
Monthly support = guideline percentage × min(monthly net resources, 11,700)
The percentage depends on how many children are covered by the order, and the guideline only applies to the first 11,700 dollars of monthly net resources (the cap effective September 1, 2025):
| Children | Guideline percentage | Maximum at the cap |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 20% | 2,340 dollars |
| 2 | 25% | 2,925 dollars |
| 3 | 30% | 3,510 dollars |
| 4 | 35% | 4,095 dollars |
| 5 or more | 40% | 4,680 dollars |
Worked Example
Suppose the paying parent has 5,000 dollars in monthly net resources and two children:
- Guideline percentage for 2 children = 25%
- Capped net resources = min(5,000, 11,700) = 5,000 dollars
- Monthly support = 25% × 5,000 = 1,250 dollars
If that parent instead earned 15,000 dollars in net resources, only the first 11,700 dollars would count, giving 25% × 11,700 = 2,925 dollars under the guideline.
What Counts as Net Resources
Net resources start with almost all income, then subtract specific items:
- Included: wages, salary, tips, bonuses, commissions, self-employment income, rental and investment income, and most benefits.
- Subtracted: Social Security taxes, federal income tax (figured for a single person claiming one exemption), state income tax, union dues, and the cost of the child’s health and dental insurance.
Important Limits
- This is the guideline estimate, not a court order. Judges may vary the amount for proven needs, a child’s special circumstances, or other children the parent supports.
- More than one household. If the parent has children in another home, the guideline percentages are reduced under a separate multiple-family table.
- High earners. Income above the 11,700 dollar cap is added only if the child’s proven needs justify it.
For an official figure, use the Texas Office of the Attorney General resources or consult a family law attorney. This tool is for estimation only and is not legal advice.
Frequently asked questions
How is child support calculated in Texas?+
Texas applies a guideline percentage to the paying parent's monthly net resources: 20% for one child, 25% for two, 30% for three, 35% for four, and 40% for five or more, up to a net resources cap of 11,700 dollars per month.
What is the Texas child support cap?+
As of September 1, 2025, the guideline percentages apply to the first 11,700 dollars of monthly net resources. Income above that is not automatically counted unless a court finds the child has proven needs beyond the guideline amount.
What are net resources in Texas child support?+
Net resources are nearly all income (wages, self-employment, bonuses, rental and investment income) minus Social Security taxes, federal income tax for a single filer, state income tax, union dues and the child's health and dental insurance.
How much is child support for 2 children in Texas?+
For two children the guideline is 25% of monthly net resources. On 5,000 dollars of net resources that is 1,250 dollars per month. At the 11,700 dollar cap the guideline maximum for two children is 2,925 dollars.
Is this Texas child support estimate exact?+
It is an estimate using the standard guideline percentages. Courts may adjust for other children the parent supports, special needs, or proven expenses, and the judge has discretion. Always confirm with the Texas Attorney General or an attorney.