Texas Child Support Calculator – Accurate & Easy to Use

What Is the Texas Child Support Calculator?

The Texas Child Support Calculator is a digital tool that estimates the amount of monthly child support the non-custodial parent (obligor) may be required to pay. It follows the Texas Child Support Guidelines set by the Texas Family Code, using income-based formulas to ensure fair contributions toward a child’s needs.

It’s important to note that the calculator provides an estimate only. The final child support amount can vary depending on court orders, special circumstances, and other financial details.

How the Texas Child Support Calculator Works

The calculator uses a few key financial inputs to generate an estimated child support payment. Here’s a breakdown of how it works in plain English:

1. Gross Monthly Income

This is the obligor’s total income before taxes or deductions. It includes wages, bonuses, commissions, self-employment income, and other sources of money earned monthly.

2. Self-Employment Adjustment

If the obligor is self-employed, the calculator automatically adjusts for higher FICA (Social Security and Medicare) contributions. This ensures the net resources reflect real-world tax differences.

3. Health and Dental Insurance

The calculator allows you to subtract the cost of health and dental insurance premiums paid for the children. These are considered necessary expenses and reduce the amount of income used for calculating support.

4. Number of Children

The number of children covered by the case directly affects the percentage of income applied. Texas law sets clear guideline percentages:

• 1 child – 20% of net resources
• 2 children – 25%
• 3 children – 30%
• 4 children – 35%
• 5 or more children – 40%

The calculator uses these percentages automatically, adjusting for any other children the obligor supports in a different household.

5. Net Resources Cap

Texas caps net resources at $9,200 per month (as of the latest guideline update). This means that support is calculated on the first $9,200 of income, even if someone earns more.

Step-by-Step: How to Use the Calculator

Using the Texas Child Support Calculator is quick and simple:

1. Enter the monthly gross income of the non-custodial parent.
2. Check the box if the parent is self-employed.
3. Add monthly health and dental insurance costs for the children.
4. Select the number of children in this case.
5. Select the number of other children supported by the same parent (if any).
6. Click “Calculate” to get an estimated monthly child support payment.
7. Review the results displayed under “Guideline Support Estimate.”

If you need to start over, just click “Reset.”

Example Calculation

Let’s say a non-custodial parent earns $5,000 per month, pays $200 in health insurance for the child, and supports two children in this case.

After adjusting for taxes and FICA, the calculator estimates the net resources and applies the correct percentage (25%), showing the estimated monthly payment under Texas guidelines.

This quick example helps parents understand what to expect before heading into court or mediation.

Why Use an Online Child Support Calculator?

• Saves time and confusion — no need for manual math.
• Provides a realistic estimate before filing paperwork.
• Helps parents plan budgets based on likely support obligations.
• Useful for both parents to understand guideline ranges.
• Built around Texas-specific law, not general U.S. averages.

Important Disclaimer

This calculator is a helpful educational and planning tool, but it’s not a substitute for legal advice. The actual child support order can differ based on:

• Additional income sources or deductions
• Custody arrangements
• Medical, educational, or special needs of the child
• Agreements made during court proceedings

If you’re dealing with a child support case, it’s always best to consult with a family law attorney familiar with Texas child support law.