Child support is a crucial financial obligation that ensures children receive the care and resources they need to thrive. However, many parents in Colorado wonder when this responsibility comes to an end. Understanding the termination of child support can help both paying and receiving parents plan for the future and know their rights and obligations.
The Standard Age of Termination
In Colorado, child support typically ends when a child reaches the age of 19. This is different from many other states where child support ends at 18. Colorado’s law recognizes that many young adults are still finishing high school at 18 and may need continued financial support.
The specific statute governing this is found in Colorado Revised Statutes § 14-10-115, which establishes 19 as the general age of emancipation for child support purposes.
Important Exceptions to the 19-Year Rule
While 19 is the standard age, there are several important exceptions that can either extend or end child support earlier:
Early Termination
Child support may end before age 19 if the child becomes legally emancipated through:
- Marriage
- Joining the military
- Becoming financially self-sufficient and living independently
- Court-ordered emancipation
Extension Beyond Age 19
In certain circumstances, child support may continue beyond the child’s 19th birthday:
High School Students: If a child is still enrolled in high school at age 19, child support will continue until the end of the month following graduation. A child who ceases to attend high school prior to graduation and later reenrolls is entitled to support upon reenrollment and until the end of the month following graduation, but not beyond age twenty-one. This ensures that children can complete their basic education without financial hardship.
Children with Disabilities: For children with mental or physical disabilities that prevent them from being self-supporting, child support may continue indefinitely, as long as the disability existed before the child turned 19.
The Role of Court Orders
Emancipation occurs and child support terminates without either party filing a motion when the last or only child attains nineteen years of age .
Continuing to pay child support after the legal obligation has ended won’t typically result in a refund, so it’s crucial to take action promptly when your child reaches the termination age.
Multiple Children and Child Support
If you have multiple children covered under a single child support order, the support amount will typically be recalculated when one child ages out. The support doesn’t simply end entirely – instead, it’s adjusted to reflect support for the remaining children who are still eligible.
Modifications and Changes
Life circumstances can change, and sometimes child support orders need to be modified before the natural termination date. Common reasons for modification include:
- Significant changes in income for either parent
- Changes in custody arrangements
- Job loss or disability
If you need to modify your child support arrangement, you’ll need to petition the court for a modification rather than simply stopping payments.
What Happens to Back Child Support?
Even when ongoing child support obligations end, any unpaid back support (called “arrearages”) doesn’t disappear. These debts continue indefinitely and can be collected through various means, including wage garnishment, asset seizure, and tax refund interception.
Planning for the End of Child Support
Both parents should prepare for the eventual end of child support obligations:
For Paying Parents: Start planning financially for when your obligation ends. Consider whether you want to continue voluntarily supporting your child’s education or other needs.
For Receiving Parents: Begin preparing for the loss of this income stream. Consider whether your child will need financial support for college or other post-secondary education, which typically isn’t covered by child support.
The Importance of Legal Guidance
Child support termination can be complex, especially when dealing with exceptions or unusual circumstances. Working with an experienced divorce and family law attorney ensures that you understand your rights and obligations and that all necessary legal steps are taken properly.
At Nexus Family Law Group, we help Colorado families navigate all aspects of child support, from initial establishment through modification and termination. Our experienced Denver attorneys understand the nuances of Colorado family law and can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation.
Taking the Next Step
If you’re approaching the end of a child support obligation or have questions about when your payments should end, don’t leave these important matters to chance. The specifics of your case matter, and what applies to one family may not apply to another.
Child support laws can be complex, and every family’s situation is unique. For specific legal advice about your child support obligations or rights, contact Nexus Family Law Group to speak with an experienced Colorado family law attorney about your particular circumstances.
Understanding when child support ends is just one piece of the larger family law puzzle, and having knowledgeable legal representation can make all the difference in protecting your interests and your child’s wellbeing.