Child support questions

Does child support end at 18?

How to use this page: review the guidance below, enter the requested information, and compare the estimate with your state's official rules before making legal or financial decisions.

Short answer: In most states, child support ends when the child turns 18, often extended until high school graduation (usually no later than 19). A few jurisdictions run longer: New York, Mississippi and the District of Columbia generally continue support to age 21, while Alabama, Nebraska and Indiana generally use 19.

Common exceptions

Support can continue past the usual age for a child with a disability who cannot support themselves, and some states allow support or contributions toward college.

Support can also end early if the child marries, joins the military, or is legally emancipated by a court.

Support does not always stop on its own

In many states the paying parent must file to terminate the order, especially when there are multiple children or wage withholding is in place. Past-due support (arrears) is still owed after the child ages out.

Check your order

Your court order may set a specific end date or event. When the order and the general rule seem to conflict, the order controls until a court changes it.

Run the numbers with the Modification Calculator, or talk to a lawyer about your case.

This page is general information, not legal advice. Rules differ by state and change over time.