Three Things That Can Make Your Child Support Obligation Last Longer 

 Posted on January 07, 2022 in Child Support

For most divorced parents, child support payments end once their youngest son or daughter turns 18. But for some parents, child support can last many years longer, if not an entire lifetime. If you are paying child support, here are three things to be aware of that could make child support last much longer. 

High School Graduation 

If a child is still in high school when he or she turns 18, child support payments will continue until the child graduates from high school and turns 19. This ensures that one parent is not left paying for all of a child’s educational and housing needs when he or she is still essentially functioning as a minor child. Many child support orders include termination dates, but circumstances can change and parents may need to request a court-ordered modification that includes a termination date. Failure to pay child support is a serious offense in Illinois and it is unwise to assume child support is ending unless you have a confirmed termination date. 

College Expenses

Illinois child support law is unique in that it can require divorced parents (but not married parents) to pay for their child’s college expenses as they earn an undergraduate degree. The cost of college is estimated using tuition and fees from the University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana campus, so even if a child attends a private or out-of-state college, parents will not have to pay more than the cost of UICU. However, parents can be made to pay for books, tuition, and living expenses. 

Disability

Adult children who have a disability that prevents them from becoming financially independent may need to be supported by their parents until the parent or child passes away. The disability must meet the definition of a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits major life activity. When determining whether child support is appropriate for an adult disabled child, Illinois courts will look at the child’s needs and any available state or federal resources.

Meet with a Naperville, IL Child Support Lawyer

Understanding how Illinois law treats child support is essential for avoiding unpleasant surprises. The experienced DuPage County child support attorneys with Calabrese Associates, P.C. can give you the support you need as you negotiate child support matters and help you prepare for the future. Call us today at 630-393-3111 to schedule an initial consultation. 

Source: 

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs4.asp?DocName=075000050HPt%2E+V&ActID=2086&ChapterID=59&SeqStart=6200000&SeqEnd=8675000