At JeffMcKnightLaw, we often get asked if child support automatically stops when a child turns 18 in Texas. This topic can be confusing, and many parents are unsure about what to expect. As experienced divorce lawyers, we want to clarify this issue to help you plan ahead. Read on to find out important details that could impact your financial responsibilities.
According to Texas Family Code, child support usually stops when the child turns 18 or graduates high school, whichever occurs later. However, if the child is disabled, support may continue indefinitely. Check the specific court order for exact details.
Does Child Support End at 18 in Texas?
In Texas, child support often continues until the child graduates from high school, even if they turn 18 beforehand.
In basic terms, child support usually ends when a child turns 18, but there are a few exceptions. If a child has a disability that stops them from supporting themselves, child support can continue longer. Support can also keep going if the child is going to college full-time or if the parents agree to keep paying support after the child turns 18.
In a basic sense, it’s important to look at the child support agreement and talk to a lawyer to understand what applies to your case. In Texas, when child support ends depends on different factors and each family’s situation.
Exceptions to Child Support Ending at 18
Child support can extend beyond 18 if the child is still in high school, has a debilitating disability, or if parents mutually agree to continue payments.
Let me explain, if a child needs financial help after turning 18, the court may decide to keep child support going. This can also happen if the child is in college or learning a trade.
In concise terms, each case is different, so it’s important to look at the details to see if child support should continue past 18.
Steps to Modify Child Support Order
Gathering all relevant financial documents and evidence is the crucial first step in modifying a child support order.
In general terms to modify a child support order, you’ll need documents like pay stubs, tax returns, and other income details. First, review the current child support order and figure out why you need a change. This might be because of changes in income, job status, or major life events.
After collecting all the necessary information, talk to a family law attorney. They can guide you on the steps to take, which usually include filing a request with the court and attending a hearing to show evidence for the change. Simply put, it’s important to follow all court rules and timelines to make sure your request is considered.
At the court hearing, present your evidence clearly and well-organized. The judge will consider this information and decide based on what’s best for the child. If the judge agrees to the change, a new child support order will be issued, which you must follow.
Changing child support can be complicated, so it’s a good idea to get legal help to get the best result. Make sure you follow all court procedures and provide strong evidence to support your request for modification.
Impact of Higher Education on Child Support
Higher education often results in higher income, which can lead to increased child support payments.
Essentially, when a parent goes for higher education, it can affect child support in a few ways:
- If the parent with more education gets a better-paying job, they might be able to pay more child support.
- However, going back to school can also be expensive. If the parent struggles with money because of school costs, they might pay less in child support.
- Studying also takes time. In short, the parent might not spend as much time with their child because they’re busy with school and other responsibilities. This could affect their relationship and the child’s well-being.
How to Handle Arrears After 18
At 18, you’re legally accountable for managing any arrears yourself.
At the simplest level, you need to talk to the person or company you owe money to and try to arrange a way to pay them back. If you can’t pay, get help from a financial expert or debt advisor.
In the most basic sense, it’s important to pay off any overdue bills before taking on more debt. Act quickly to deal with the problem to avoid more money troubles.
In the End
In Texas, child support typically ends when the child turns 18 or graduates from high school, whichever comes later. However, there are exceptions to this rule depending on the circumstances.
What JeffMcKnightLaw is thinking it’s needed to is, it is important for parents to understand their rights and obligations regarding child support in order to ensure a smooth transition once the child reaches adulthood.
References
- “Child Support Guidelines: Interpretation and Application” by Barbara Stark Baxter (Publisher: American Bar Association)
- “Child Support Law: Legal Issues, Procedures, and Guidelines” by Joan Steffen (Publisher: Wolters Kluwer)
- “Texas Family Code: 2019 Edition” by Sterling Publishing Co. (Publisher: Sterling)
