When Can I Stop Paying Child Support in Illinois?

 Posted on September 30, 2024 in Child Support

One of the issues single parents talk about a lot is child support. Whether the parents were married and then child support payments were ordered as part of a divorce or a baby was born to unmarried parents, it is an important arrangement that ensures parents have the money they need to give their children what they deserve. 

In families where a father has no relationship with the mother or child but is legally obligated to make child support payments, he might be wondering how long this requirement lasts. A common misconception is that you pay child support until the child turns 18 years old, but that is not always the case and if you are a child support paying parent, it is important for you to understand all the factors involved. A knowledgeable Wheaton, IL child support lawyer can help explain them.

When Does Child Support End?

Parents typically need to pay child support until their son or daughter is no longer considered a child. In most cases, payments stop when the child turns 18 years old. However, some factors can make the period longer, including:

• If your child has physical or mental disabilities, either or both parents might be ordered by the court to continue supporting him past his 18th birthday.

• If you are required to support your child while he is enrolled in college. The child needs to be a full-time student, in good standing, and may need to take some responsibility for his finances as well, for example by getting a part-time job or applying for aid or scholarships.

• If your child is still in high school after his 18th birthday, in which case you stop paying on their 19th birthday or at their high school graduation, whichever comes first.

Can I Get Our Child Support Arrangement Modified?

When a child support arrangement is first formulated, it is based on the family’s circumstances at the time. However, parents’ jobs can change and their financial situations can fluctuate. The child’s needs can change, too. If something has happened that makes your current child support arrangement difficult to adhere to, a lawyer can help you navigate the process of getting it modified. 

Keep paying as agreed until you are officially told otherwise, though. If you do not meet your legal obligations, even if your situation has changed, you can face legal consequences like being found in contempt of court, having your wages garnished, getting your driver’s license suspended, and possibly even jail time.

Schedule a Free Consultation with a DuPage County, IL Child Support Attorney

If you are unsure how long you will need to keep paying child support, an experienced Wheaton, IL child support lawyer can help clarify matters. At Davi Law Group, we are dedicated to helping children and parents overcome obstacles and move on in their lives. Call us at 630-657-5052 to schedule a free consultation.