Child support is one of the most important issues Texas parents face during a separation or divorce. Whether you are the parent seeking support or the parent being asked to pay, the outcome directly affects your financial future and your child's well-being. Understanding how Texas calculates child support—and how to protect yourself during the process—can prevent major problems later.
At Barina Law Group, I help parents secure fair and legally sound child support orders. My goal is simple: protect your children, protect your income, and protect your rights.
How Texas Calculates Child Support
Texas uses a very strict formula based on the paying parent's net resources. This includes:
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Employment income
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Overtime and bonuses
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Self-employment income
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Retirement
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Disability payments
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Military pay
Under the Texas Family Code, the guideline percentages are:
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1 child: 20% of net resources
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2 children: 25%
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3 children: 30%
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4 children: 35%
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5+ children: at least 40%
These guidelines are not always final. Courts may adjust support if a child has special needs, if a parent has irregular income, or if other extraordinary circumstances exist.
For more detailed information, visit our Child Support page here:
👉 https://www.bobbybarinalaw.com/family-law/child-support/
What Child Support Covers in Texas
Child support is intended to cover a child's basic needs, including:
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Housing
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Clothing
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Food
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School supplies
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Regular medical care
It does not automatically include extracurricular activities, travel, private school, or college expenses unless the court specifically orders it.
Modifying Child Support
Life changes. Jobs change. Income changes. Children's needs change.
Texas allows child support modification when:
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Circumstances have materially and substantially changed, OR
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It has been at least 3 years and the order differs from guideline support by 20% or at least $100
A modification must be filed with the court—agreement alone is not enough to protect you.
Enforcing Child Support in Texas
If a parent falls behind, Texas courts have strong enforcement tools, including:
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Wage garnishment
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Suspension of driver's licenses
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Interception of tax refunds
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Liens
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Contempt of court
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Jail time
If you are owed child support, I can help you enforce the order quickly.
If you are behind on payments, I can help you defend against penalties and seek a modification.
Why You Need an Experienced Lawyer
Child support is more than math. It involves judgment, evidence, and strategy. A mistake—on either side—can cost thousands of dollars or damage your rights for years.
As an experienced Temple, Texas family law attorney, I guide parents through:
✔ Child support calculations
✔ Enforcement and defense
✔ Modifications
✔ Negotiations and court hearings
✔ Medical support and dental support issues
I provide clear guidance, strong representation, and solutions tailored to your family.
Your Next Step: Protect Your Rights and Your Child
If you need help with child support in Texas, I am here to guide you step-by-step.
👉 Learn more about Child Support:
https://www.bobbybarinalaw.com/family-law/child-support/
📞 Call Today to Schedule Your Consultation: (254) 699-3755
📍 Barina Law Group, 2207 Birdcreek Drive, Temple, Texas 76502
🌐 www.bobbybarinalaw.com
📧 [email protected]
I'm Bobby Dale Barina—your advocate, your guide, and the solution to your family law challenges.
