Changes to Child Support – What Moms and Dads need to know

On September 1, 2013, the “maximum” amount of net resources for Texas child support cases increased from $7,500.00 to $8,550.00. The effect of this change is that child support for one child for high wage earners now has a ceiling of $1,710.00, up from $1,500.00.

The percentages for child support depend on the number of minor children you have with that same parent. For two children, you would pay or receive 25% of the obligor’s net resources; for three children – 30%, for four or more children – 35%. If the obligor has other minor children from a different relationship, those percentages will be adjusted down depending on the number of other children.

There will sometimes be situations where a Court can order child support above the presumed “guidelines” amount, but you should talk to a Texas family law attorney about whether or not your situation warrants an increased or decreased child support amount. Some of the situations that might apply include a very, very high wage earner, unusual educational or medical expenses for a child, or a child with special needs that requires extra care.

The change of the child support maximum does not necessarily warrant a change in your child support amount. Also, the change is not automatic. One of the parents must file a case with the Court to obtain a new order with the new child support amount. You should contact a Texas family law attorney and ask whether or not your child support amount should change.

Andrew J. Passons
Lewis, Passons & Darnell, P.C.