Factors that Can Affect Child Support Payments

Child support is an ongoing, periodic payment made by a non-custodial parent following the end of a marriage or other relationship. These payments help financially provide for that parent’s child or children and ensure their basic needs are met. Typically, child support payments in Texas are calculated using a percentage of the paying parent’s net income. For one child, the child support payment is usually 20 percent of net monthly income. For each additional child, another 5 percent is added. However, there are several factors that can change the way child support payments are calculated and affect the amount owed. Here are a few circumstances that may alter the payment calculations. Deductions. Once income is assessed, there may be federal deductions and mandatory deductions that apply. For example, some teachers have mandatory retirement deductions. Bonuses. There are complex issues that come up such as bonuses or overtime pay that isn’t guaranteed. A parent may need to speak to an attorney about how to approach such income to avoid overpayment but still ensure the children are provided for. Insurance. Factors like health and dental insurance for the child or children need to be taken into consideration when calculating child support payments. Navigating the world of child support and child custody is complicated. It’s important to speak with a lawyer about options whether you are the parent paying or the parent receiving child support. At Sandoval Law Firm we understand the stress of dealing with divorce, child custody and domestic violence. Our firm consists of founding attorney Raul Sandoval Jr. and a dedicated support staff. Mr. Sandoval earned his law degree from Texas Tech University School of Law. Since that time, he has been practicing family law in the Austin area, as well as teaching seminars, classes and other forms of professional development.