Child Support Duration Calculator
Find out when child support ends for each of your children based on state-specific age of majority rules. See remaining payments, step-down schedules, and total financial obligations.
When Does Child Support End?
Child support duration is primarily determined by the age of majority in your state, which is the age at which a child is legally considered an adult. In most states, this is 18, but several states extend support to 19, and a few (Mississippi, New York, DC) extend it to 21. Many states also require support to continue until high school graduation, even if the child turns 18 before graduating, with a cap of 19 or 20.
Understanding exactly when support ends for each child is important for financial planning. When you have multiple children, your total support obligation typically decreases each time a child ages out. This step-down pattern can significantly affect your monthly budget over time.
State-by-State Age of Majority
Most states set the age of majority at 18, with notable exceptions. Alabama and Nebraska set it at 19. Mississippi's age of majority is 21, the highest in the nation. Several states tie the end of support to high school graduation rather than a specific birthday, meaning a child who turns 18 in January but graduates in June would still receive support until graduation.
Special Circumstances That Extend Support
College support: Some states allow courts to order parents to contribute to college expenses. States including Massachusetts, Indiana, and Missouri can extend support into the early twenties for children pursuing higher education. The specific rules vary, including caps on the amount and duration.
Disability: If a child has a physical or mental disability that prevents self-support, child support may continue indefinitely. The parent paying support must typically petition the court to establish ongoing support before the child reaches the age of majority.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does child support automatically stop at 18?
Not automatically. In most states, you must file a motion with the court to terminate the support order when the child reaches the age of majority. Continuing to pay without modification does not create any automatic adjustment. If support is paid through the state disbursement unit, they may automatically close the case, but this varies by state.
What happens to arrears after the child turns 18?
Any unpaid child support (arrears) remains a legal obligation even after the child reaches adulthood. Arrears do not expire and continue to accrue interest in most states. The custodial parent or the state can continue collection efforts, including wage garnishment, tax intercepts, and license suspension, until all arrears are paid in full.
Can a child emancipate early and end support?
Yes, in most states a child can petition for emancipation before reaching the age of majority, which would end the child support obligation. Common grounds for emancipation include marriage, active military service, and financial self-sufficiency. The paying parent can also petition for early termination if the child becomes emancipated.