Specialty tag(s): Child Support
Aimee Pingenot Key | August 28, 2025
Yes, and it is one of the most important factors for couples with children to consider when divorcing. However, you should also know that the Texas child support cap is not static. Under Texas Family Code §154.125(a)(1), the Texas Office of the Attorney General (OAG) is required to review and adjust the presumptive net resource amounts used in child support guidelines every six years to account for inflation. This adjustment is calculated using a formula that relies on the consumer price index.
As of September 1, 2025, the cap on monthly net resources used to calculate child support in Texas is $11,700.
This means that if you are ordered to pay child support (the “obligor”) and your net resources exceed $11,700 per month, child support will be calculated only on that $11,700 figure. For example, someone earning $250,000 annually would owe the same guideline support as someone earning $140,400 annually, because $11,700 is the maximum amount considered under the cap.
Under the state’s child support guidelines, payments are determined by applying a specific percentage to the net resources, starting at 20% for one child and increasing by 5% for each additional child up to five, at which point it would be 40%. If someone had five children and their net resources were capped at $11,700, this would work out to a monthly payment of $4,680. However, there are a lot of variables at play here, including the number of children, the parent’s net resources, and any circumstances that might call for additional support beyond the typical amount. For instance, if the monthly net resources of the obligor (the person paying child support) exceed $11,700, the party seeking support may be able to demonstrate to the court during a litigated divorce that additional support is justified beyond the guideline amount, based on factors outlined in Texas Family Code §154.126.
If you already have an existing order, a parent receiving child support may seek a modification. If the obligor earns above the new $11,700 cap, the court will likely recalculate the obligation using the updated amount.
Calculating child support in Texas is highly case-specific and depends on many factors beyond just the cap. The guidance of an experienced family law attorney can help ensure that child support is calculated correctly and fairly, whether you are negotiating a new order or seeking a modification.
For an estimate of your monthly child support obligation, you can use our Child Support Calculator.
To learn more about how our firm can help you, contact Aimee Pingenot Key at (214) 373-7676.
Our attorneys are experienced in all aspects of family law and will guide you through each step of the process, ensuring you have the information you need to make wise decisions and prepare for the future.
At Goranson Bain Ausley, we strive to deliver clarity about what comes next and confidence that you and your family’s future are more secure. Contact our team and discover how we can help you.
Voted #1 Texas Family Law Firm by Texas Lawyer
Protecting What Matters Most
How Can I Protect My Children’s Inheritance in a Divorce?
Discover what measures you can take to ensure that your children’s inheritance is protected from a divorce settlement.
How to Modify Child Support in Texas and Reasons Why You Should
Learn what to expect when the need for modifications in child support agreements arise.
Facing divorce or family law issues? Don’t navigate alone. Email us to schedule a consultation.
When you need to speak to a top divorce lawyer, call us to schedule a consultation.
