How Long Does Child Support Last?

Child support helps parents cover the everyday costs of raising a child, including food, clothing, housing, and medical care. If you are a parent in Harrisburg, you may wonder how long these payments will continue. The answer depends on several factors, including your child’s age, educational status, and any special needs.

At McDonald Myers Law, our Harrisburg child support lawyers will guide you through every stage of the support process. If you are currently navigating child support, contact us today to protect your rights and your child’s future.

When Does Child Support End in Pennsylvania?

In most cases, child support in Pennsylvania ends when the child turns 18 or graduates from high school, whichever happens later. Under 23 Pa.C.S. § 4321, parents must support their unemancipated children who are 18 years of age or younger. Pennsylvania courts have also ruled that support usually continues while an 18-year-old is still attending high school. For example, if your child turns 18 in October of senior year, support may last until graduation in June.

Can Child Support Continue Past Age 18?

Yes, child support can continue past age 18 in some cases. Section 4321 also says parents may have to support an adult child, depending on the circumstances. This most often applies when a child has a physical or mental disability that prevents them from living independently, so the court considers whether the child can earn enough to support themselves. If not, support may last for many years.

Do Parents Have to Pay for College?

No, Pennsylvania courts generally cannot order parents to pay for college through a support order. The state once had a law requiring separated parents to help with college costs, but the Pennsylvania Supreme Court struck it down in 1995 in Curtis v. Kline. However, parents can still agree to share college costs in a written agreement, and a court may enforce that agreement.

Can a Child Support Order Be Changed?

Yes, a child support order can be changed if there is a material and substantial change in circumstances. Under 23 Pa.C.S. §4352, either parent may ask the court to modify an existing order. Common reasons include a job loss, a large raise, new medical costs, or a change in custody. The court will review the evidence and decide whether a different payment amount is appropriate. Because a modification generally applies only back to the date the petition was filed, it’s important not to wait.

What Happens to Unpaid Child Support in Harrisburg, PA?

Unpaid child support does not go away when the support order ends. Past-due payments, called arrears, remain legally owed until paid in full. Pennsylvania can collect arrears through wage withholding, tax refund seizures, and driver’s license suspensions. A parent who ignores a support order may also be held in contempt of court.

Helping to Establish, Modify, or Defend an Existing Support Order

Our Harrisburg child support lawyers can help you establish a fair support order based on both parents’ incomes. If your income or your child’s needs change, we can ask the court to modify the order. When the other parent stops paying, our legal team can take steps to enforce it. If you are facing an unfair support claim, do not hesitate to contact our skilled family law attorneys.

Ready to Begin? Contact Our Harrisburg Child Support Attorneys

At McDonald Myers Law, we understand that support issues can be stressful, and we are here to guide you through every step of the process. Our Harrisburg child support lawyers offer consultations to discuss your situation and help you discern your options. To get started, contact us online or call (717) 704-9077 to schedule your consultation.