Interest on Child Support Arrears in Texas: Rate, Simple vs. Compound and When It Applies
Texas child support interest is 6% simple a year on the part of delinquent support that is greater than one month’s obligation, and 6% simple on a confirmed money judgment.
Does Texas charge interest on child support arrears?
Yes. Interest accrues on the portion of delinquent child support that is greater than the amount of the monthly periodic support obligation at the rate of 6 percent simple interest per year from the date the support is delinquent until the date the support is paid or the arrearages are confirmed and reduced to a money judgment (Tex. Fam. Code 157.265(a)).
Why does Texas exclude the first month from interest?
Because the statute applies interest only to the part of the delinquent support that is greater than one month’s periodic obligation. The Texas arrears calculator applies that rule month by month.
| Scenario at 6% simple, no payments | Interest | Total owed |
|---|---|---|
| 12 unpaid installments of $500 | $165.00 | $6,165.00 |
| 24 unpaid installments of $500 | $690.00 | $12,690.00 |
| 36 unpaid installments of $500 | $1,575.00 | $19,575.00 |
Each figure assumes no payments.
What happens when Texas arrears are confirmed?
Interest accrues on arrearages that have been confirmed and reduced to a money judgment at 6 percent simple interest per year from the date the order is rendered until the judgment is paid; interest on a money judgment for retroactive or lump-sum support also runs at 6 percent simple from the date the order is rendered (157.265(b)-(c)). The judgment is a cumulative one that includes unpaid support not previously confirmed, the balance of earlier confirmed arrears and interest (157.263(b)).
When does Texas interest start on a judgment?
On the date the judge signs the order for the judgment, unless the order states another specific date (157.261(b)).
Can the interest be waived?
The sections we read give no list of grounds to waive interest, and the court may not reduce arrears (157.263(b-3)). Ask a licensed Texas attorney whether a negotiated payoff with the obligee is possible and have the court approve it.
Is Texas child support interest simple or compound?
Simple, by the statute’s words, in every subsection.
Is interest taxed on the first month if I pay late each month?
The base is the delinquent support above one month’s obligation, so a single late month produces no interest under the calculator’s scenario; the court’s figure can differ, so check the ledger.
Does the lien include interest?
Yes. A child support lien arises for all amounts of child support due and owing, including any accrued interest, regardless of whether they have been adjudicated (157.312(d)).
Can interest be reduced by agreement?
The sections we read give no power to reduce arrears or interest; the court confirms the amount and may allow only a counterclaim or offset (157.263(b-3)). Ask a licensed Texas attorney before relying on a settlement.
Which Texas payments does this cover?
Payments that become due on or after January 1, 2002 (157.265(d)). Older arrears follow the former rules (157.265(e)-(f)), so ask the court how your balance is split.
Where do you get the official figure?
From the Office of the Attorney General Child Support Division, the district clerk or the court that confirmed the arrears. See whether arrears can be changed and file to modify if your circumstances changed.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Texas interest rate on child support arrears?
Six percent simple a year.
Does Texas charge interest on the first month of unpaid child support?
No. Interest accrues only on the part greater than one month's obligation.
Does interest continue after Texas confirms arrears in a judgment?
Yes, at 6% simple on the judgment.
Is Texas child support interest compounded?
No. The statute says simple interest.
Where can I check my Texas child support balance?
With the Child Support Division of the Office of the Attorney General or the district clerk.
Official sources
- Tex. Fam. Code 157.265: accrual of interest
- Tex. Fam. Code 157.261: unpaid support as judgment
- Tex. Fam. Code 157.263: confirmation of arrearages
- Tex. Fam. Code 157.312: child support lien
- Tex. Fam. Code 157.005: time limitations
- Tex. Fam. Code 232.003: suspension of license
- 15 U.S.C. 1673: restriction on garnishment
- 42 U.S.C. 652(k): denial of passports
A local family law attorney can review your situation — many offer a free consultation.
This is general information, not legal advice. It is based on the cited Texas statutes, rules and court opinions, and every case turns on its own facts. Confirm how the law applies to your situation with a licensed Texas attorney.