Child support in the State of Texas is determined by guidelines set forth in the Texas Family Code.  Usually the party who does not have the children living with them the majority of the time is the party obligated to pay child support. 

The party who does not have the children living with them a majority of the time is called a “noncustodial parent.”  Parties can agree on an amount that the noncustodial parent pays, even agreeing that no child support is paid.  In the absence of an agreement however, the court will apply the following guidelines in order to determine an appropriate amount for child support: 

1 child                                                20% of net resources

2 children                                           25% of net resources

3 children                                           30% of net resources

4 children                                           35% of net resources

5 children                                           40% of net resources

6 or more children                              Not less than 40% of net resources

Notwithstanding the above guidelines, a court can vary (up or down) from the guideline support and consider the following factors in deviating from guideline support:

1. Age of the child, the child’s needs and special expenses;
2. Parents financial ability, income, assets and resources;
3. Child care expenses;
4. Other child support expenses and custody care;
5. Any current alimony expenses;
6. Medical and health care expenses and insurance;
7. Educational expenses including college;
8. Employer benefits;
9. Debts or other financial obligations of parents;
10. Wage deductions;
11. Travel costs associated with child visitation;
12. Income or expenses relating to assets of parent; and
13. Automobile, mortgage or lease payments.

There are also special rules the court will consider where there is split custody situation or a joint child household. There are also special rules if you have children from other relationships. 

A court can also modify child support if the noncustodial parent’s income has increased or decreased since the last child support order.

Child support, child custody and child visitation issues are complicated and emotional for all parties concerned.  Choosing an experienced and skilled family law attorney is extremely important because the choices you make now will affect you and your child for many years ahead. 

The Austin Child Support attorneys at The Law Office of Willie & Dasher, have a wealth of family law experience and represent clients in the Austin, Texas and surrounding areas.

We care about you and your family.  The Law Office of Willie & Dasher is here to explain the child support, child custody and child visitation process and answer your questions.  

We treat our clients like they are part of our own extended family.  We understand that child support, child custody and child visitation issues are very emotional and stressful for our clients.  Let us help you make the right choices.

For more information about the Austin child support, child custody, child visitation, and divorce law firm of The Law Office of Willie & Dasher, please fill out the contact form on this page, or call us today (512) 478-0834 for a consultation to discuss your options.