You are close to landing that new dream job, and you are thrilled. Finally, after years of hard work, you’ll earn the income that will give you additional financial security. But as you review your new company’s offer, a thought crosses your mind: “Will I pay more in child support if I get a raise?”
Our attorneys get this question a lot. On the one hand, you want to ensure your children are cared for—even after a divorce. But you can’t help but worry about how your child support obligations might shift with your new higher income.
Let’s break down how child support is affected by income changes and what steps you may need to take.
How is Child Support Calculated?
Please consult an attorney for advice about your individual support situation. However, Texas child support payments are calculated using a standardized formula based on the non-custodial parent’s income. The court aims to ensure the children receive financial support consistent with their needs. To determine this, the court calculates the monthly net income of the paying parent and multiplies it by a percentage based on how many children need support.
Several factors can impact the calculation, such as income level, children of a prior relationship, or the special needs of the children.
The typical breakdown is as follows:
1 child – 20% of the monthly net income
2 children – 25% of the monthly net income
3 children – 30% of the monthly net income
4 children – 35% of the monthly net income
5 children – 40% of the monthly net income
Does My Raise Mean My Payments, By Law, Must Go Up?
Your child support payments in Texas can increase if you get a raise at work. But it’s not automatic. Child support is based on a percentage of your net income, so an increase in income could result in higher payments if the other parent requests a modification.
To do this, the other parent may file a Petition for Modification of Child Support with a Texas court. If accepted, the court will review your new financial situation and apply the Texas child support guidelines listed above. A raise that pushes your income above the Texas cap for child support ($10,925 per month in 2024) may only affect your payments if the child has special needs that warrant additional support.
Please Call Christman | Daniell for Your Legal Needs Today!
Looking for family law services in Texas? Christman | Daniell is your premier choice. With years of experience and a deep understanding of the legal landscape, our skilled team is dedicated to helping families navigate complex legal matters. Whether it’s divorce, child custody, or adoption, trust Christman | Daniell to provide compassionate and effective representation for all your family law needs throughout Collin County.
Please consult an attorney for advice about your situation. The material on this website and in this or any blog article we publish are for informational purposes only. They do not constitute legal advice. The attorneys at Christman | Daniell believe in tailoring legal advice and solutions to your circumstances.
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