The Child Support Division of the Texas Attorney General’s office administers child support services for Texas parents. As in other states, both parents must provide financial support for minor children after a divorce or when unmarried.
Either parent can start the process by submitting an online application for child support assistance.
Attending the CSRP meeting
Once you open a case with the Child Support Division, you will receive notice of your Child Support Review Meeting, which both parents must attend. The CSRP session includes a child support officer who will help establish an agreement that adheres to state law and meets the needs of the child and both parents. After the judge approves the agreement you reach in the CSRP meeting, monthly support payments will begin.
Deciding on child support in court
When parents cannot successfully agree on a fair child support arrangement during the CSRP session, the officer in charge of the meeting will schedule a court hearing. At this date, both parents can present evidence to support their case, which the judge will use to make a legally binding decision.
Child support calculations in Texas
In general, the parent with whom the child spends less time must pay monthly support. Guidelines review the non-custodial parent’s net monthly income as a starting point. State law mandates payment of at least 20% for one child, 25% for two children and 30% for three children, up to a maximum of 40%.
The CSRP meetings provide your family with an opportunity to come up with a support solution that is amenable to everyone. However, if you are unable to do so, you will be subject to the judge’s discretion in determining a monthly payment amount.
If you do not know where your child’s other parent lives or his identity, the Child Support Division can help locate him or her. The agency will also order a DNA paternity test when either parent questions who the child’s father is.