When Does Child Support End?

Under Missouri law, child support ends when a child reaches the age of 18, with some exceptions and extensions. If the child is still in high school when they turn 18, child support continues until the child graduates from high school.

Child support also continues until a child reaches age 21, if the child is enrolled full-time in post-secondary or vocational education after his or her graduation from high school. For support to continue after a child is enrolled in post-secondary or vocational school after high school, there are also  specific requirements which must be met, including remaining in good standing, and advising the paying parent of classes and grades. If these requirements are not satisfied, child support may be abated or terminated.

Regardless of the child’s age, child support ends if the child marries or enters active duty in the miliary. On the other hand, if a child is physically or mentally incapacitated and incapable of supporting himself, the court may continue the obligation to pay child support past the age of 18. Having support continue as a result of incapacity requires that a motion be filed with the court, and the court entering a judgment finding that the child is incapable of supporting himself.

For questions about this or other family law matters, please contact one of the attorneys at Sandberg Phoenix.