As announced and expected, the Texas Office of the Attorney General has released significant updates to the 2025 Child Support Tax Charts, bringing important changes that affect both employed and self-employed parents across Dallas and throughout Texas. Located and stated at https://csapps.oag.texas.gov/system/files/2025-01/2025_Tax_Charts.pdf (which the Texas Attorney General will update shortly) and https://csapps.oag.texas.gov/monthly-child-support-calculator these revisions, effective September 1, 2025, include a substantial increase in the monthly net resources cap of obligorâs from $9,200 to $11,700, representing the first adjustment since 2019. This equates to gross monthly income of $18,000 or $216,000 in gross pretax income per year. It can be slightly confusing because typically child support lawyers and Courts look at net income to arrive at child support amounts and most parents conceptualize their income in terms of gross yearly income or gross monthly. A simple conversion, as stated in this article is all that is needed.
If you’re navigating child support matters in Dallas, understanding these changes is crucial for ensuring accurate calculations and protecting your family’s financial future. As an experienced Dallas child support attorney, I’ve helped countless families navigate these complex guidelines and understand their implications.
Major Changes in the 2025 Child Support Tax Charts
Increased Gross and Net Resources Cap
The most significant change in the 2025 tax charts is the adjustment of the monthly net resources cap from $9,200 to $11,700. If you earn $18,000 per month, or $216,000 per year gross, then you are at the new cap of $11,700 per month in net resources.
This 27% increase reflects inflation adjustments and affects how child support is calculated for higher-income parents. Under Texas Family Code Section 154.125, this cap determines the maximum amount of net resources to which the standard guideline percentages apply. This equates to approximately a $500 monthly increase from the current amount for people at the old cap for people at the new cap ($18,000 a month in gross income – or – $216,000 a year in gross income).
For parents earning above these thresholds, courts will presumptively apply the percentage guidelines to the portion of monthly income up to $11,700 net/$18,000 gross, then may order additional amounts based on the income of both parties and the proven needs of the child.
Updated Standard Deduction
The 2025 charts also incorporate the revised federal standard deduction for single taxpayers, which increased from $15,000 to $15,750 under “The One Big Beautiful Bill Act.” This change affects the calculation of net resources available for child support purposes.
Separate Charts for Employed and Self-Employed Parents
The Texas Attorney General’s office continues to provide separate tax charts recognizing the different tax obligations between employed and self-employed individuals:
Employed Persons: Subject to 6.2% Social Security tax (up to $176,100 annually) and 1.45% Medicare tax Self-Employed Persons: Subject to 12.4% Social Security tax and 2.9% Medicare tax, with special deductions under Section 1402(a)(12) of the Internal Revenue Code
How These Changes Affect Dallas Families
Impact on Child Support Calculations
For Dallas families, these updates can significantly impact child support obligations. Parents who previously earned more than $9,200 in net monthly income probably have their monthly child support capped and set at $9,200 ($1,840 per month in child support for one child) are now subject to a new higher cap of $11,700 ($2,340 per month in child support for one child). The increased cap means:
- More income is now subject to the standard guideline percentages
- The amount set in your Court does not automatically change and can only be changed by Court Order.
- However, higher-income parents may see changes in their support obligations if petitioned by the custodial parent
Understanding the Child Support Percentage Guidelines for Capped Income Earners
Under Texas Family Code Section 154.125, the guideline percentages for one household and the new figures for income earners earning at least $11,700 per month in net support (after tax income) are:
- 1 child: 20% of net resources       = $2,340 in monthly child support
- 2 children: 25% of net resources    = $2,942 in monthly child support
- 3 children: 30% of net resources    = $3,510 in monthly child support
- 4 children: 35% of net resources    = $4,095 in monthly child support
- 5+ children: 40% of net resources   = $4,680 in monthly child support
Multiple Household Situations
For parents with children in multiple households, Texas Family Code Section 154.129 provides alternative calculation methods that our Dallas family law attorneys can help you understand and apply.
Limitations and Special Considerations
Complex Tax Situations
The 2025 tax charts don’t account for all possible deductions, including:
- Qualified business income deductions under Section 199A
- Complex pass-through entity structures
- S corporation, partnership, or rental property income
If you’re a business owner or have complex income sources, consulting with both a Dallas child support attorney and tax professional is essential for accurate calculations.
Self-Employment Income Calculations
Self-employed parents face additional complexity in determining net resources. The charts account for the special self-employment tax deductions but require careful analysis of net earnings from self-employment as defined in Texas Family Code Section 154.065.
When You Need a Dallas Child Support Attorney
Modification of Existing Orders
If you have an existing child support order that was calculated under the previous guidelines, these changes may warrant a modification. Texas law allows for modifications when there’s been a material and substantial change in circumstances, which could include these guideline updates.
High-Income Cases
For parents with income exceeding the $11,700 monthly net resources cap, determining appropriate child support requires careful legal analysis. Courts have broad discretion above the cap, making experienced legal representation crucial.
Disputed Income Calculations
When there’s disagreement about income classification, deductions, or other factors affecting the calculation, having a knowledgeable Dallas child support attorney ensures your rights are protected.
The Importance of Professional Legal Guidance
Accurate Calculations Matter
Miscalculating child support can have serious consequences, including:
- Overpayment resulting in financial hardship
- Underpayment leading to enforcement actions
- Difficulty obtaining future modifications
- Potential contempt of court findings
Local Court Experience
Dallas County family courts have specific procedures and preferences for handling child support cases. Our experienced Dallas divorce lawyers understand these local practices and can navigate them effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2025 Child Support Tax Charts
What happens if my income exceeds the $11,700 cap on net income?
Courts will apply the standard percentages to the first $11,700 of monthly net resources, then may order additional support based on both parents’ income and the child’s needs. This requires careful legal analysis and often benefits from experienced legal representation.
How do these changes affect existing child support orders?
Existing orders aren’t automatically updated. However, the changes may provide grounds for modification if they result in a material and substantial change to the calculated support amount.
Can I use the online calculator for complex situations?
The Texas Attorney General’s online calculator at csapps.oag.texas.gov is helpful for basic calculations but may not accurately handle complex income situations, business ownership, or multiple households.
When do I need to hire a Dallas child support attorney?
Consider legal representation when dealing with:
- Income above the guideline cap
- Complex business or investment income
- Disputed income calculations
- Modification requests
- Enforcement issues
- Multiple households with children
How often do these guidelines change?
The Texas Family Code requires the Attorney General to review and adjust the cap amount every six years to reflect inflation. The last adjustment before 2025 was in 2019.
What if I disagree with the calculated amount?
Child support calculations can be complex, especially with the 2025 changes. If you believe your support amount is incorrect, consulting with a Dallas child support attorney can help you understand your options for challenging or modifying the calculation.
Taking Action on Your Child Support Case
Immediate Steps for Dallas Parents
If these changes affect your situation:
- Review your current child support order against the new guidelines
- Gather current income documentation including pay stubs, tax returns, and business records
- Calculate your net resources using the new tax charts
- Consult with a Dallas child support attorney to understand your options
The Value of Early Legal Consultation
Whether you’re facing an initial child support determination or considering a modification, early legal consultation can save time, money, and stress. Our team provides comprehensive analysis of your situation and develops strategies tailored to your family’s needs.
Looking Forward: What These Changes Mean Long-Term
Inflation Protection
The adjustment to $11,700 provides inflation protection that had been missing since 2019. This helps ensure child support amounts remain meaningful in supporting children’s needs despite economic changes.
Precedent for Future Adjustments
The 2025 update establishes a pattern for regular adjustments that should help keep guidelines current with economic realities. Future adjustments are scheduled for 2031 unless economic conditions warrant earlier review.
Why Choose Experienced Dallas Family Law Representation
Local Knowledge and Experience
Navigating child support calculations requires understanding both state guidelines and local court practices. Our Dallas family law firm combines deep knowledge of Texas child support law with extensive experience in Dallas County courts.
Comprehensive Family Law Services
Child support often intersects with other family law matters including child custody, divorce, and modification proceedings. Having comprehensive legal support ensures all aspects of your case are properly coordinated.
Personalized Attention
Every family’s situation is unique. We take time to understand your specific circumstances and develop strategies that protect your interests while supporting your children’s needs.
Serving Dallas and Surrounding Communities
Our Dallas divorce law firm proudly serves clients throughout Dallas County. We understand that divorce proceedings often involve local court systems, and our extensive experience in Dallas-area family courts gives our clients a distinct advantage.
Primary Service Areas:
- Dallas
- Garland
- Richardson
- Mesquite
- Irving
- DeSoto
- Grand Prairie
- Lakewood
- Highland Park
- Forest Hills
- Whiterock
- North Dallas
- Farmers Branch
- Cockrell Hill
- Lancaster
- Seagoville
- Duncanville
Our Dallas area divorce lawyer team understands the unique dynamics of each community we serve and how local factors may impact your case.
Office Location:
6440 N. Central Expressway, Suite 450
Dallas, Texas 75206
Phone: (214) 977-9050
We’re conveniently located to serve clients throughout the Dallas metropolitan area, with easy access from major highways and central to Dallas County family courts.
Next Steps: Protecting Your Family’s Future
The 2025 Child Support Tax Chart revisions represent significant changes that could affect your family’s financial future. Whether you’re establishing initial support, seeking a modification, or dealing with enforcement issues, having experienced legal guidance ensures your rights are protected and your children’s needs are met.
Don’t wait to address these important changes. Contact our office today for a consultation to discuss how the 2025 guidelines affect your specific situation and what steps you should take to protect your interests.
Ready to discuss your child support case? Call (214) 977-9050 to schedule your consultation with an experienced Dallas child support attorney who understands the complexities of the new 2025 guidelines and can help you navigate them successfully.
The information in this article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Child support calculations can be complex, and individual circumstances vary significantly. Always consult with a qualified Dallas family law attorney for advice specific to your situation.
