I'm From The Generation That Says Men Otta Take Care Of Their Kids' – Dave Ramsey Talks Child Support With Caller Making More Than Spouse

In a recent episode of The Ramsey Show, financial guru Dave Ramsey didn't hold back when a caller, Cassie from Fort Worth, Texas, asked for his advice on child support. A military veteran, Cassie wanted to know if she should enforce child support on her soon-to-be ex-husband, even though she earns more than he does. 

Cassie makes around $7,500 monthly between her pension and VA benefits, while her husband brings home $2,800 monthly. He claims he can't afford the state-mandated 25% of his income for their two kids – and he's worried he'll end up in jail if he can't pay it.

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Dave's response was clear: "I'm from the generation that believes that men ought to take care of their kids," he said. In his view, supporting your children is simply the right thing to do, regardless of financial hardship. 

And if Cassie's ex couldn't handle it financially, Ramsey's solution was straightforward: he could work more to make up the difference. In his blunt but honest style, he reminded her that paying for your kids is part of being a responsible parent. "You signed up for the trip, bubba. You get to take the trip," he said.

Cassie explained that she felt guilty and wasn't sure about enforcing the payments, knowing her ex is struggling financially. Ramsey quickly shot down the idea that she should feel bad, telling her it's not about "greed" but about the kids. He noted that after 11 years of marriage, her husband may have become comfortable with her support, but that didn't change his responsibilities now. Ramsey advised her to move forward without guilt and seek legal counsel, adding, "You don't need to negotiate with him on this. Just say, ‘see my lawyer, see my lawyer.'"

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Now, a little context on Texas child support laws: Texas calculates child support as a percentage of the noncustodial parent's income; for two children, it's typically 25%. So, even though Cassie's husband makes significantly less than she does, he would still be required to contribute 25% of his income –$700 a month – toward their care. Texas law enforces this obligation because, as Ramsey pointed out, it's both a moral and legal duty for parents to support their children. While Cassie's ex argued he couldn’t make the payments, Ramsey clarified that financial obligations don't disappear because they're inconvenient.

Cassie's ex also suggested he might want 50-50 custody to avoid paying child support altogether. But Ramsey reminded her that splitting custody would mean splitting expenses too – something likely to cost more than his current 25% obligation. Ramsey and co-host George Kamel expressed doubt that his request was motivated by genuine interest in the kids rather than financial relief.

For Cassie and listeners alike, Ramsey's advice was direct: Parents must take care of their kids. And if enforcing child support is necessary to ensure her children are taken care of, Cassie should feel empowered to pursue it, guilt-free.

If you find yourself in a similar situation, seeking legal counsel is always wise. You may also consider consulting a financial advisor to help you better navigate what your new financial landscape will look like, whether you're paying or receiving child support. 

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