When Can I Stop Paying Child Support in Georgia?

Child support is a major financial burden for many parents in Georgia, and many want to end these payments as soon as possible. Perhaps you believe that your payments are unfairly high, or maybe you think that your ex should be contributing more to the family. Whatever the case may be, it is important to understand when child support ends. This is a conversation you might want to have with a family law attorney in Atlanta.

Child Support Often Ends at 18 

Parents often stop paying child support when the receiving child turns 18. At this point, they become a legal adult – and they become responsible for their own financial well-being. As a result, you no longer have any legal obligation to look after your young one. Any financial support you provide past this point is purely optional.

However, many children have early birthdays – and they may remain in high school past the age of 18. If this occurs, then child support will almost certainly end on the child’s graduation date – and not their 18th birthday. If the child needs to repeat a grade or struggles to graduate from high school, child support could theoretically continue until their 20th birthday.

Disabled Children Could Continue Receiving Child Support for Much Longer 

If your child is disabled, you have to follow different child support rules. As long as your adult child is incapable of living alone, you may need to continue providing child support past their 18th, 19th, and 20th birthdays. Sometimes, this support must continue until either the child or the parent dies.

Emancipation Can End Child Support Early 

Although this situation is quite rare, a child could theoretically stop receiving child support before their 18th birthday if they become emancipated. This might occur if a 17-year-old joins the military or gets married.

You Can Modify Your Child Support After Changes of Circumstance 

A change of circumstance could allow you to modify your existing child support order in Georgia. These life events might include job losses, new disabilities, and other issues that prevent you from paying the previously agreed-upon child support payments. In some situations, a major life change of this nature may even allow you to stop paying child support altogether.

However, one cannot change child support on a whim. If you’re serious about modifying your payments, consider speaking with an experienced family law attorney.

Can a Family Law Attorney in Atlanta Help Me Stop Paying Child Support? 

A family law attorney in Atlanta may be able to help you stop paying child support. However, it is important to understand that each family situation is different. You might have to wait until your child turns 18, or you may have the opportunity to modify your child support early. To receive personalized guidance, it makes sense to consult with a legal professional and explain your unique situation. Continue this conversation by contacting Buckhead Family Law today.

Sources: 

eeca.unfpa.org/sites/default/files/pub-pdf/unfpa%20georgia%20summary.pdf

usa.gov/military-requirements