How Does Child Support Work in Texas? A Complete Guide for Parents

What Is Child Support?

Child support is a court-ordered payment from one parent to another to help with the cost of raising their child. In Texas, the law presumes that both parents should contribute financially, regardless of custody arrangements. However, the noncustodial parent—the one who spends less time with the child—is typically the one who pays support.

The system isn’t meant to punish one parent or reward the other. Instead, it ensures that the child maintains a stable and supportive environment, even if the parents are no longer together.

The Role of the Texas Attorney General’s Office

Unlike some states where child support is handled at the county level, Texas centralizes these services under the Office of the Attorney General (OAG). The OAG doesn’t represent either parent—it represents the best interest of the child.

The office offers services such as:

• Locating noncustodial parents
  
• Establishing legal paternity
  
• Creating and enforcing child support orders
  
• Collecting and distributing payments
  
• Reviewing and modifying orders when appropriate
  

Even if you’re not currently in a legal dispute, the OAG’s services can be helpful if you want to establish or enforce support without hiring a private attorney.

How the Courts Determine Child Support Amounts

Percentage-Based Formula

Texas uses a straightforward formula for calculating child support. The noncustodial parent pays a percentage of their net monthly income based on how many children require support.

If the parent has other children from a different relationship, the percentage may be adjusted using a multi-family adjustment chart to prevent financial hardship.

What’s Included in Net Income?

Net income includes:

• Wages or salary
  
• Bonuses and overtime
  
• Self-employment income
  
• Rental income
  
• Commissions
  
• Royalties
  
• Social Security benefits (not SSI)
  
• Unemployment and disability benefits
  

After calculating total income, deductions are made for federal taxes, Social Security, and health insurance for the child.

Income Cap Considerations

Texas law sets a cap on the income used to determine child support. This cap changes every six years based on inflation and economic data. In 2025, the cap means only income up to $9,200 per month (net) is subject to the formula. Courts may order more if a child has special needs or extraordinary expenses.

What Does Child Support Cover in Texas?

Child support isn’t just for clothes or meals—it covers a broad range of child-related expenses. These include:

• Basic needs like food, clothing, and housing
  
• Educational expenses such as books, school supplies, or tutoring
  
• Health insurance and medical expenses, including co-pays and prescriptions
  
• Dental and orthodontic care, often ordered separately from medical
  
• Childcare or daycare costs, especially when the custodial parent is working or attending school
  

What It May Not Cover Automatically

Some items—like extracurricular activities, private school tuition, or summer camp—aren’t automatically included. Parents who want those expenses shared must request that the court include them in the final order.

Duration of Child Support Payments

Support generally continues until the child:

• Turns 18 or
  
• Graduates high school (whichever happens later)
  

Exceptions:

• If the child marries or joins the military, support may end earlier.
  
• If the child has a physical or mental disability that prevents independence, courts may order indefinite support.
  
• In rare cases, payments may be extended voluntarily as part of a mutual agreement, especially when college expenses are involved.
  

Setting Up Child Support in Texas

Steps to Establish Support

1. Open a Case: This can be done through the OAG or through a private attorney.
   
2. Locate the Other Parent: The state uses databases and other tools if one parent is absent.
   
3. Establish Paternity: This is required if the parents were never married.
   
4. Attend a Hearing or Mediation: The court determines the appropriate support amount.
   
5. Issue a Court Order: Once signed, the order becomes legally binding.
   

Voluntary Agreements

Parents can agree on a support amount outside of court, but it must still be approved by a judge. Judges will not approve agreements that fall significantly outside of guideline recommendations unless it’s shown to benefit the child.

Payment Methods and Tracking

In Texas, child support payments are processed through the State Disbursement Unit (SDU). The SDU:

• Records every payment
  
• Sends payments to the receiving parent
  
• Offers online tracking through the Child Support Interactive Portal
  

Payment methods include:

• Income withholding (most common)
  
• Online payments via the OAG portal
  
• MoneyGram or Western Union
  
• Mailed checks or money orders
  

What Happens If Payments Are Missed?

Texas has strict enforcement tools to deal with nonpayment:

• Automatic wage withholding
  
• Property liens
  
• Credit bureau reporting
  
• Suspension of licenses (driver’s, professional, fishing, etc.)
  
• Seizure of tax refunds
  
• Court contempt charges, which may include fines or jail time
  

Interest on unpaid support accrues at 6% annually, increasing the total owed over time.

Changing Child Support Orders

You can request a modification of your order if:

• The child’s living situation changes significantly
  
• The paying parent’s income goes up or down by 20% or more
  
• It’s been at least three years since the order was created or modified
  

Modifications must be approved by the court. Parents can submit a request through the Attorney General’s website or file directly in court with the help of a lawyer.

Does Moving Out of State Affect Child Support?

No. If a parent moves out of Texas, they are still legally required to pay support. Under the Uniform Interstate Family Support Act (UIFSA), states cooperate to enforce child support orders across state lines. The Texas OAG can contact the other state to garnish wages, seize assets, or pursue legal action.

Digital Tools That Make It Easier

Texas offers a few tools that simplify the process:

• Child Support Interactive: Lets parents monitor payments, receive notifications, and update information.
  
• OAG Mobile App: Access your case on the go.
  
• Virtual assistance chatbots on the OAG site answer common questions and provide step-by-step help.
  

Can Parents Mediate Child Support Agreements?

Yes. Parents may use mediation to reach a support agreement outside of court. A neutral third party helps them come to terms on support, custody, and other parenting concerns.

However, the final agreement still needs a judge’s approval. If the agreement doesn’t meet state guidelines, the court may adjust the amount or request justification.

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Final Thoughts

Child support in Texas is built to make sure children have what they need to thrive—even when families live apart. Whether you’re setting up, receiving, or paying child support, staying informed helps you avoid legal pitfalls and unnecessary stress. If you’re unsure about your rights or responsibilities, don’t hesitate to seek help. The Texas Attorney General’s Office offers free resources, or you can consult a licensed family law attorney. At Daniels Law Firm, we understand that family matters can be emotional and complex—especially when it comes to protecting your child’s future. We’re here to provide clear, reliable guidance to help you make informed decisions every step of the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I stop paying child support if I lose my job?
No, support continues unless a court order changes it. You can file for a modification based on your new income.

2. Can I pay the other parent directly instead of going through the SDU?
Only if the court order allows it. Otherwise, payments should go through the state system to ensure they’re documented.

3. Can I include college tuition in a support order?
Not by default. You’ll need a court-approved agreement that specifically includes post-secondary expenses.

4. What if I receive child support and move to another state?
Your payments will continue as long as you update your address and bank info. The Texas OAG can continue managing your case.