Do I Have to Pay for My 21-Year-Old Son’s College Tuition?

Do I Have to Pay for My 21-Year-Old Son's College TuitionQuestion:

Our child support agreement says the father obligated to pay up to SUNY cap for our son’s college expenses. However, a lawyer told us that if our son took time off, the father’s legal obligation for half of the college expenses was over. Our son has never worked full-time. He lives with his friends and has relied on his part-time job and child support money up to now. The dad is willing to pay some money towards college but wants to be able to give money directly to him. He also says he will only help out if our son keeps his grades up. I would also like son to contribute some money towards education so he has some skin in the game. Please advise.

Answer:

You need to review your Agreement and/or Judgment of Divorce to ascertain your obligations. A judge cannot order you to pay any child support, including college expenses, past the age of 21. However, if you agreed to make payments past that date as a part of your final settlement and/or separation agreement, you could be obligated. It would be a good idea to consult with an attorney who can review that paperwork and advise you on what, if anything, you are obligated to pay.
 
This educational legal blog was brought to you by Avvo and answered by Jean Mahserjian, an experienced New York divorce attorney located in Saratoga County. Our law office has been helping residents with child support issues for over 25 years.

Leave a Reply