Under the Child Support Standards Act of New York State, the age of emancipation is 21. Child Support runs until the age of 21, unless a child emancipates themselves sooner. That can occur in a number of ways, which include leaving a parent’s home, obtaining their own housing, starting their own family, or joining the military. Under these scenarios, Child Support can terminate through an application process.
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Many parents ask us about extending Child Support past the age of 21 because their child remains in college. Unfortunately, in New York State, a court cannot order Child Support past the age of 21 without the parent’s agreement. If you’re negotiating an agreement on Child Support that encompasses the payment of college expenses, you need to discuss that issue with your Attorney, and negotiate that issue with your spouse, before you sign the agreement.
This informational blog post was provided by Jean Mahserjian, an experienced New York Child Support Attorney.
