In most cases, noncustodial parents stop paying child support once their child finishes high school or turns 18. But what if your child is on the path to college?
It is not uncommon for young adults to start supporting themselves through college. Many take out loans, get jobs or apply for government assistance. However, many parents continue supporting their children until they complete their higher education.
If you’re planning to financially support your child through college, is their other parent obligated to pay, too?
Below is some important information that can provide some clarity.
When does child support end in Vermont?
In most cases, child support ends when the child:
- Turns 18
- Graduates high school
- Becomes legally emancipated
However, the paying parent’s obligation does not automatically end when the child turns 18 or graduates—they need a court order or a modification to stop payments legally.
Can child support continue if your child goes to college?
Yes, you and your coparent can agree to continue child support past your child’s 18th birthday or high school graduation. Many parents do this to help their children go through college, vocational training and other post-secondary education.
However, it is best to have a signed, written agreement so the court can make it an official order. This way, your agreement becomes enforceable.
How do courts calculate child support and college costs?
You and your former partner will likely have to recalculate the child support amount to account for college expenses. Parents can agree on an amount on their own, but it may still need approval from a judge.
If you leave the calculation up to the court, they will look at several factors, such as:
- Both parents’ financial resources
- The standard of living the child would have enjoyed if their parents were still married
- The child’s financial resources, such as scholarships or loans
- The child’s projected college expenses, including tuition, room and board, school supplies and general living costs
Like regular child support, there is no specific formula for calculating support for college expenses. Nevertheless, the court will consider the factors above to determine a fair amount.
Do you need legal help for this?
Similar to most child support matters, legal guidance can be invaluable in ensuring your child gets the support they need while pursuing a degree. A family law attorney can help you and your former partner decide on an amount, make the agreement official and serve as a neutral third party when issues arise.
