What Does Child Support Cover in Texas?

 Posted on November 13, 2023 in Child Support

The custodial parent has little to no say in how much support they will receive from the non-custodial parent concerning child support payments. Child support is court-ordered and legally binding but does not say precisely what it has to be used for. Outside of a child’s basic needs being met, the non-custodial parent can use the payment for anything they see fit. Parents concerned with child support payments should speak to a skilled and experienced family law attorney for more information.

What is Child Support?

Child support is payments the non-custodial parent must pay to the custodial parent to cover their children’s basic needs. Its primary use is to cover the costs of raising a child. Child support typically lasts until the child reaches the age of 18 or graduates from high school. The amount ordered is non-negotiable, and failure to make child support payments carries a whole host of different penalties.

What Are The Basic Needs of the Child?

Minimum basic needs include:

• Food
• Clothing
• Shelter
• Education

Since the Texas Family Code does not specify exactly what else the child support can be used for, parents will often choose to use it to cover extracurricular activities, alternative education, vacations, and anything else they may deem in the best interest of their child. 

What If The Other Parent Spends Child Support On Things I Disagree With?

Non-custodial parents can often disagree on how their child support payments are spent. They may feel that the custodial parent spends the money on frivolous things unrelated to the child and their needs. In any case, you should never stop support payments. Doing so would not be in your best interest, and your situation could only worsen. To stop support payments would directly violate a court order, which can carry hefty penalties.

If you feel that the custodial parent is not using the child support payments as they should and you have proof, contact your lawyer immediately. A good lawyer knows exactly what to do in these situations. They can help you with the petition for the modification of child support payments or conservatorship to protect your child better and ensure their well-being is taken care of.

Contact a Fort Worth, TX Family Law Attorney

A child’s best interest is the foremost important factor in a judge’s ruling on child support. Having an understanding and compassionate Dallas, TX child support lawyer on your side can only help to ensure your child receives what they deserve. The Clark Law Group can assist in enforcing child support payments and modifying child support if necessary. Contact our office at 469-906-2266 for a serious discussion on your legal matters and how we can help your case.