Texas child support law is precise — the right numbers matter. Attorney Lynda Landers helps Collin County parents understand how support is calculated, modified, and enforced under the Texas Family Code.
Texas uses a percentage-of-income formula under the Texas Family Code. The percentages apply to the obligor's "net resources," not gross income.
Under Texas Family Code §154.125, child support is calculated as a percentage of the paying parent's monthly net resources. "Net resources" means gross income minus taxes, FICA, union dues, and the cost of health insurance for the child — not simply take-home pay.
The percentages in the table below apply to the first tier of net resources. As of the 2023 legislative update, the cap on net resources for guideline child support is approximately $11,700 per month. That figure is adjusted periodically by the Office of the Attorney General; verify the current cap before relying on any specific number.
| Number of Children | % of Net Resources |
|---|---|
| 1 child | 20% |
| 2 children | 25% |
| 3 children | 30% |
| 4 children | 35% |
| 5 or more children | 40%* |
*For 5+ children, the court may not order less than the amount for 4 children. TFC §154.125(b).
If the paying parent has children from other relationships, the percentages are adjusted downward using a formula in TFC §154.128. The court may also deviate from guidelines in unusual circumstances — but it must state why in the order.
Full Calculation ExplainerNet resources under TFC §154.062 include:
Deductions from gross income include: federal and state income taxes (at single-rate), Social Security and Medicare, and health insurance premiums for the child.
Guideline support is only calculated on net resources up to the cap (approx. $11,700/mo as of September 1, 2025 — verified periodically). Above the cap, the court may order additional support if the child's needs justify it under TFC §154.126.
Whether you're establishing an order, seeking a modification, or trying to collect what's owed — Lynda Landers can help.
Net resources, the percentage table, credits for other children, self-employment, and above-guidelines cases. Know the math before you walk into court.
Read the full explainerTexas allows modification when there's a material and substantial change in circumstances, or every three years if the calculated amount differs by 20% or $100.
Learn about modificationTexas courts have strong tools to enforce support: wage withholding, license suspension, contempt, and state collection through the OAG.
Enforcement optionsEvery Texas child support order must address health insurance and uninsured medical expenses. Learn how the rules work and what happens when coverage isn't available.
Medical support rulesUnpaid child support accumulates at 6% interest. Texas courts cannot retroactively reduce arrears. Learn your options — and your limits.
Arrears guideWhen the paying parent's income exceeds the cap, Texas courts may order more. High-income child support cases involve different rules and arguments.
High-income casesQuick answers to 12 common child support questions: calculations, modifications, enforcement, arrears, and more.
Browse the FAQLynda Landers represents parents and guardians throughout Collin County in child support proceedings before the 256th, 380th, 401st, and 417th District Courts and the Collin County Court at Law.
Child support cases can be emotionally charged and legally complex. Whether you're the parent seeking support, the parent who owes it, or someone whose order needs updating, having accurate legal advice matters more than you might expect. Small errors in how net resources are calculated — or how an order is written — can cost thousands of dollars over the life of an order.
Lynda has handled child support matters across every phase: initial establishment in divorce and SAPCR (Suit Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship) cases, post-decree modifications, enforcement through contempt, and collection of arrears. She takes the time to explain the formula, so clients leave with a clear picture of where the numbers come from.
Communities served include McKinney, Frisco, Plano, Allen, Prosper, Celina, Anna, Melissa, Wylie, Princeton, and surrounding Collin County cities.
29 years of Texas family law. Principal attorney at Landers Family Law.
Principal office: 1207 W. University Dr., Suite 102
McKinney, TX 75069
Whether you're calculating support for the first time or dealing with a non-paying parent, a conversation with Lynda Landers can clarify what Texas law actually says — and what your options are.
Schedule a Consultation Call (972) 529-5707