About the Texas child support system

  1. If you don’t respond, your case can be decided without your input.
  2. You may have the right to have a judge review a decision made by an administrative child support officer.
  3. Know who you’re dealing with — get the name, title, and decision-making authority of any officer you meet with.
  4. Understand exactly what you’re signing, and the consequences, before you sign anything.
  5. Being the legal father doesn’t automatically give you visitation or custody — you need a court order for that.
  6. Pay what you can, consistently, even below the ordered amount, and keep records of every payment.
  7. Document your financial situation clearly so your order reflects reality.
  8. If your income drops, request a review right away — and follow up to make sure it happens.
  9. Avoiding enforcement almost always makes your situation worse, not better.