When Does Child Support End In Missouri?

November 4, 2023 by Marjorie R. Rogers, MA (English), Certified Consultant

Child support in Missouri typically ends when the child reaches the age of eighteen, with certain exceptions such as if the child graduates high school, reaches the age of twenty-one, graduates from college or attends college less than full-time, enters active military duty, becomes self-supporting, or marries.

Child Support Age Limits In Missouri

Child support in Missouri typically ends when the child reaches the age of eighteen, but there are exceptions. It can continue until the child graduates high school, reaches the age of twenty-one, graduates from college, or enters active military duty, among other circumstances.

In Missouri, child support is typically paid until the child reaches the age of eighteen. However, there are exceptions to this age limit, and child support can be extended under certain circumstances.

Age Of Eighteen

The age of eighteen serves as the general cut-off age for child support in Missouri. Once a child turns eighteen, it is presumed that they are capable of supporting themselves financially, and the obligation for child support ends.

Exceptions To Age Limits

While the age of eighteen is the standard age limit for child support termination in Missouri, there are exceptions to this general rule. Child support can continue beyond the age of eighteen under the following circumstances:

• If the child graduates from high school, child support may be extended until the child completes their education or turns twenty-one, whichever comes first.
• If the child attends college on a full-time basis, child support can be extended until they complete their college education or turn twenty-one.
• If the child enlists in active military duty, child support may continue during their service.
• If the child becomes self-supporting, meaning they are able to cover their own financial needs without assistance from the custodial parent, child support can end.
• If the child gets married before turning eighteen, they are considered emancipated, and child support is no longer required.

It’s important to note that these exceptions are not exhaustive, and the court may consider other factors on a case-by-case basis. Therefore, it’s recommended to consult with a family law attorney in Missouri to understand the specific circumstances in which child support may be extended beyond the age of eighteen.

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Factors That Can Extend Child Support In Missouri

Child support in Missouri is typically paid until the child reaches the age of eighteen. However, there are certain circumstances that can extend child support beyond this age. Understanding these factors is crucial for both custodial and non-custodial parents.

Graduation From High School

One factor that can extend child support in Missouri is when the child has not yet graduated from high school. In such cases, child support may continue until the child completes their high school education. This is important to consider as it ensures that the child’s educational journey is supported financially.

Attending College Less Than Full-time

Another factor that can extend child support is if the child decides to attend college but only on a part-time basis. In such cases, child support may continue until the child completes their education or reaches the age of twenty-one, whichever comes first. This provision recognizes the importance of supporting a child’s education, even if they are not attending college full-time.

Entering Active Military Duty

If the child decides to enter active military duty after turning eighteen, child support may continue during their military service. This acknowledgment ensures that the financial well-being of the child is maintained while they serve their country. It is important for both parties involved to understand and abide by this provision.

Becoming Self-supporting

When a child becomes self-supporting and is no longer dependent on their parents financially, child support may come to an end. This can happen if the child secures a job and is capable of meeting their own financial needs. It is crucial to assess the child’s self-sufficiency objectively in order to determine the appropriate termination of child support.

Marriage

Lastly, child support in Missouri can be terminated if the child decides to get married. Once the child enters into the institution of marriage, as per the law, child support is no longer applicable. This provision ensures that both custodial and non-custodial parents are aware of their financial obligations in the event of their child’s marital status change.

Understanding the various factors that can extend child support in Missouri is vital in navigating the child support system effectively. Whether it is the graduation from high school, part-time college attendance, entering active military duty, becoming self-supporting, or marriage, both parents should be aware of their rights and responsibilities when it comes to child support.

Emancipation And Child Support Termination In Missouri

When it comes to child support, understanding when it ends is crucial for both custodial and non-custodial parents. In Missouri, child support must be paid until the child reaches the “age of emancipation.” However, there are certain exceptions to this rule that both parents should be aware of.

Definition Of The “age Of Emancipation”

The “age of emancipation” refers to the legal age at which a child is considered an adult and is no longer dependent on their parents for financial support. In Missouri, the age of emancipation is generally 18 years old. However, there are circumstances in which the age of emancipation can be extended.

Non-custodial Parent’s Obligation To Pay Child Support Until The Age Of Emancipation

According to Missouri child support laws, the non-custodial parent has an obligation to pay child support until the age of emancipation. This means that regardless of the child’s living arrangements, the non-custodial parent is legally obligated to provide financial support until the child reaches the designated age.

It’s important to note that the age of emancipation can be extended in certain situations. Child support may continue if the child is still attending high school, graduates after the age of 18, attends college less than full-time, enters active military duty, becomes self-supporting, or gets married before reaching the age of emancipation.

As a non-custodial parent, it is your responsibility to fulfill your child support obligations until the age of emancipation is reached. Failure to do so can result in legal consequences, including fines and even imprisonment.

If you have any questions or concerns about child support termination in Missouri, it’s always best to consult with a legal professional who specializes in family law. They can provide you with the guidance and support you need to navigate the complexities of child support laws and ensure that your child’s financial needs are met until they reach the age of emancipation.

Frequently Asked Questions On When Does Child Support End In Missouri?

Do You Have To Pay Child Support After 18 In Missouri?

In Missouri, child support is typically paid until the child turns 18. However, there are exceptions. It can continue until the child graduates high school, turns 21, graduates from college, attends college less than full-time, enters active military duty, becomes self-supporting, or gets married.

Do You Still Have To Pay Child Support If The Child Goes To College In Missouri?

In Missouri, child support can continue until the child graduates high school, reaches the age of twenty-one, graduates from college, attends college less than full-time, enters active military duty, becomes self-supporting, or gets married.

What Happens To Child Support When Child Turns 18 In Missouri?

Child support in Missouri typically ends when the child turns 18. However, there are exceptions such as if the child is still in high school, attending college less than full-time, or becomes self-supporting. It can also continue until the age of 21 if the child is attending college full-time or enters active military duty.

What Is The Cut Off Age For Child Support In Missouri?

In Missouri, child support is paid until the child reaches the age of eighteen. However, there are exceptions. It can continue until the child graduates high school, turns twenty-one, graduates from college, attends college less than full-time, enters active military duty, becomes self-supporting, or gets married.

At What Age Does Child Support End In Missouri?

Child support in Missouri typically ends when the child reaches the age of eighteen, but there are exceptions.

Can Child Support Continue After The Child Turns Eighteen In Missouri?

Yes, child support can continue after the child turns eighteen if they graduate high school, attend college, or meet certain other criteria.

Conclusion

Child support in Missouri does not automatically end when a child turns 18. There are certain exceptions that determine the duration of child support. It may continue until the child graduates high school, reaches the age of 21, graduates from college or attends college less than full-time, enters active military duty, becomes self-supporting, or marries.

It is crucial to understand these exceptions to ensure compliance with Missouri child support laws. Being aware of the specific circumstances that can extend or terminate child support will help parents navigate the legal requirements effectively.