How to Lower Child Support in Texas: Step-by-Step Guide
Many parents feel overwhelmed by child support payments, especially when income changes. The good news is that Texas law allows child support modification — but only in certain circumstances.
Here’s how modification works, and what steps you must take to reduce payments legally.
⭐ 1. You Must Show a “Material and Substantial Change”
The court may lower child support if something major has changed, such as:
✔ Income decreased
✔ Job loss or reduced hours
✔ Disability or medical condition
✔ New child to support
✔ Change in custody or visitation schedule
If the change is significant, a modification may be granted.
⭐ 2. Or You Qualify Under the “3-Year Rule”
You can request a reduction if:
- It’s been 3+ years since the last order
- The amount differs by 20% or $100
This is the easiest path for many parents.
⭐ 3. Income Must Be Proven — Not Claimed
Courts require proof, such as:
- Pay stubs
- W-2s or 1099s
- Tax returns
- Bank statements
- Employer letters
For self-employed parents, more documentation is required.
Internal link: → Child Support Modification page
⭐ 4. You Must File a Legal Modification — Not Just “Agree” Informally
If you and the other parent agree verbally to lower payments:
❌ It is NOT legally binding
❌ You may still owe arrears
❌ You risk wage garnishment
❌ The Attorney General will still enforce the old amount
Only a judge can change a child support order.
⭐ 5. When the Texas Attorney General Can Modify Support
The OAG can modify support if:
- There is an income change
- The 3-year rule applies
- Either parent requests a review
This process is slower than filing privately.
Internal link: → Attorney General Child Support page
⭐ 6. When You Should Act Immediately
File modification as soon as:
- You lose your job
- You go on disability
- Your hours are reduced
- You are injured or unable to work
- You are hit with new financial responsibilities
Courts rarely lower support retroactively.
You lose money every month you wait.
⭐ 7. You May Need Mediation or a Hearing
Some support modifications settle easily.
Others require:
- Mediation
- Temporary orders
- A contested hearing
We handle both agreed and contested modification cases.
