Legislative Update: Texas Is Raising the Child Support Cap — Here’s What Families Should Know

Starting September 1, 2025, Texas will increase the maximum income considered in standard child support calculations — known as the Child Support Cap — from $9,200 to $11,700 in monthly net resources. Whether you're paying or receiving child support, this change could affect your case going forward.

What Is the “Child Support Cap”?

Texas calculates child support using a percentage of the paying parent’s net monthly resources, up to a certain limit. That limit is what we call the cap.

Under the current law:

• 20% for one child

• 25% for two children

• 30% for three children

• 35% for four children

• 40% for five or more children

These percentages apply only up to the cap. For example, if the cap is $11,700, then 20% of that ($2,340) would be the standard guideline amount for one child. Any income above the cap is not automatically considered—unless a court finds special reasons to go higher, such as for medical or educational needs.

Why Is the Cap Increasing?

Texas law requires the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) to review and adjust the cap every six years based on inflation. The OAG uses the Consumer Price Index (CPI) to calculate the new cap amount.

• Previous Cap (2019–2025): $9,200/month

• New Cap (Effective Sept. 1, 2025): $11,700/month

That’s a 26.9% increase, reflecting the rise in living costs across Texas.

What Does This Mean for Support Amounts?

With the higher cap, maximum guideline child support amounts will also increase. Here’s a general idea of how the numbers change (rounded for clarity):

• One child: $2,340/month

• Two children: $2,925/month

• Three children: $3,510/month

• Four children: $4,095/month

• Five or more children: $4,680/month

These are the maximums under standard guidelines. Final amounts can vary based on your specific case, court findings, and any special needs involved.

Why This Update Matters

• If you receive child support: You might qualify for an increase that better reflects today’s costs of raising children.

• If you pay child support: It’s important to understand how this change may affect your budget or trigger a modification request.

• If you're modifying orders soon: Courts may begin applying the new cap to future orders after September 1, 2025.

Final Thoughts

This legislative change highlights how child support law evolves with economic shifts. Whether you're planning for the future, updating an order, or just want to stay informed—now is the time to review your current support arrangements.

Need help understanding how this impacts your situation?

Reach out to our team at Sims & Purzer. We’re here to walk you through the details and help you feel confident about what comes next.