Factors in Texas Child Support
In the state of Texas either or both parents may be ordered to make periodic or lump-sum child support payments which are presumed to be both reasonable and in the best interests of the child. The factors the court will consider when determining child support at a minimum will include:
- The age and needs of the child or children
- The ability of each parent to contribute to their child's support.
- The financial resources of both parents
- The amount of access to the child by both parents
- Childcare expenses necessary for the employment of either parent.
- Whether a parent has custody of other children and any child support expenses being paid or received for the care of
- another child.
- Educational and health care needs of the child, including future college expenses.
- Debts or obligations of each parent.
- Cost of traveling to visit the child.
- Provisions for health care and insurance for the children.
- Any other relevant factors.
Percent of Income Model
Once the courts have established which parent will pay child support, the state of Texas operates on a percent of income model which is determined by factoring in the number of children requiring support. Many people believe that this particular model does not allow for many other pertinent details, making it somewhat less than exact. In its most basic form, the percent of income model will apply the following to the parent ordered to pay child support in a somewhat arbitrary manner:
- One child=20% of Obligor's Net Resources
- Two children=25% of Obligor's Net Resources
- Three children=30% of Obligor's Net Resources
- Four children=35% of Obligor's Net Resources
- Five children=40% of Obligor's Net Resources
- Six or more children=Not less than 40% of Obligor's Net Resources
Keep in mind that "net resources" can be defined rather broadly, and that if the net resources of the parent obligated to pay child support exceed $7,500 per month they may be ordered to pay additional amounts above and beyond the percent of income model. In addition to the monthly child support payments the parent may also be required to maintain health insurance for the children under his or her employment health insurance policy. The court will usually make orders on who is to pay deductibles and uninsured expenses. The court may also order the parent to secure life insurance in an amount large enough to cover the amount of child support that would have been due until the children reached the age of 18. Remember to always depend on your attorney for his experienced advice as to what the courts will consider when deciding your particular child support case.
