Every child has the right to the financial resources of both parents, so most custody arrangements will include regular child support payments. Even if their income is less than that of the custodial parent, non-custodial parents are expected to pay child support until the minor comes of age, which may be 18 or 21, depending on the laws of your state and the details of your child custody agreement.

When Does Child Support End in New York?

While child custody arrangements are only in effect until a child reaches the age of 18, parents in New York state must continue providing financial support until they turn 21. However, if you were originally ordered to help pay for their college tuition, these payments could continue until they graduate and become financially independent.

Child Support & Emancipated Children

In some circumstances, child support payments may end before a child’s 21st birthday if they become emancipated and achieve financial independence. Typically, this occurs when the child is married, enlists in the military, or begins working full-time. Temporary employment or summer jobs to pay for college tuition are not grounds for declaring a child emancipated. However, if the conditions which led to their emancipation change, such as a divorce or discharge from the military, the non-custodial parent’s child support obligations will resume.

Child With Special Needs

Family courts understand that children with special needs require more resources and attention and may never be able to fully support themselves. In these situations of child custody, they may order support payments past the age of majority, depending on the condition of the child and the amount of care they're expected to require.

If you’re involved in a child custody or support dispute, the family attorneys at Brown, Burgoon, & Hartnagel, P.C. will provide zealous representation and sound legal advice. They’ve been serving Rockland and Orange counties for over 25 years and offer high-quality care in even the most difficult legal situations. To discuss your case and schedule a consultation, visit their website or call (845) 624-1966.