What Is the Duration of Child Support After a Divorce in Illinois?

Whether you’re paying child support or receiving it, you may wonder how long you can expect those payments to continue. Child support doesn’t last forever after an Illinois divorce, but when these payments terminate depends on the child’s needs and other factors specific to your case.

When Does Child Support End in Illinois?

According to the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services, child support payments usually last until the youngest or only child turns 18. However, state law allows the Department of Healthcare and Family Services to extend child support payments until a child turns 19 or graduates from high school, whichever comes first.

There are some circumstances where a parent may have to pay child support after the usual deadlines pass. For instance, a parent behind on their child support payments may be ordered to keep making payments until they catch up. Similarly, a court may order one or both parents to keep paying child support if an adult child has special needs, provided the child became disabled before they turned 18.

Can You Modify a Child Support Order?

Either parent can ask the courts to modify a child support order. However, the petitioning parent must prove there has been a substantial change in their circumstances, the other parent’s circumstances, or the child’s needs. For example, if a child has an unexpected injury or illness and needs long-term care, the parent receiving support could ask the court to modify the order. Likewise, the parent paying child support can petition the court to reduce their payment amount if the recipient parent’s income increases or the paying parent’s income drops.

What if You Can’t Make Your Child Support Payments?

It’s vital to pay your court-ordered child support if at all possible. Parents who don’t make their payments on time and in the correct amount could face significant penalties. These penalties can include contempt of court charges, wage garnishment, and more.

If you can’t afford your child support payments, do your best and speak to an Illinois child support lawyer. They can petition the courts to review and possibly modify your order to ease your financial burden. However, don’t stop making your payments or reduce the amount until the courts modify your order. Otherwise, you could face legal action from the other parent or the courts.

What If the Other Parent Isn’t Making Their Payments?

If your child’s other parent isn’t paying their required child support, the first step is to talk to them (assuming you’re on decent terms). Life is unpredictable, and there may be a simple mistake or misunderstanding that explains the issue.

If the other parent repeatedly makes late payments or fails to meet their financial obligations, it’s time to talk to a lawyer. Your Illinois child support attorney can help you take legal action to collect the support you’re entitled to.

Contact an Illinois Child Support Lawyer Now

Whether you need help collecting child support after an Illinois divorce or you need to change the amount of your court-ordered payments, Gravel & Wechter can advocate for your rights and guide you through the legal process. Call now or complete our contact form for a free consultation.