When Does Child Support End in Colorado?

In Colorado, child support usually ends when a child turns 19. If a child is 19 and is still enrolled in high school or an equivalent program, support payments end when the child graduates or turns 21, whichever happens first. In addition, child support may no longer be required if a child is emancipated, gets married, or begins active military duty.

There are times when child support may continue indefinitely. For example, if a child is dealing with a disability and requires ongoing support, one parent may be required to make support payments for this child beyond age 21.

A Broomfield child support attorney can answer your questions about when one parent is no longer required to make payments to another and similar legal topics. They can help a parent get child support payments for as long as necessary. Alternatively, they can make sure a parent’s legal rights are protected and ensure that they do not have to compromise their finances to make child support payments.

Criteria for Ending Child Support in Colorado

The Colorado Judicial Branch states that child support can end when a child becomes emancipated. Any of the following must be true for a child to be considered emancipated:

• The child reaches the age of 19 and is not in high school or an equivalent program.
• The court determines the child is emancipated.
• A child enters into a civil union or gets married.
• A child joins active military duty.

Both parents are expected to follow a written agreement that indicates support payments will continue after a child turns 19. In this scenario, the parent paying child support can seek help from a Broomfield family law attorney if they want these payments to end.

In a situation where a child is coping with a physical or mental disability, a parent may be required to pay child support after the child turns 19.

If a child is in high school or an equivalent program at age 19, a parent must continue to make support payments until the final day of the month after graduation.

There are rare instances in which a child stops attending high school and returns at a later date. In these instances, child support continues until the end of the month following their graduation.

Generally, child support will not extend beyond age 21. Yet, there are circumstances when child support payments are required for an extended period.

How to Terminate Child Support in Colorado

In Colorado, Form JDF 1426 details the process for terminating child support. This process begins when a parent files a motion to eliminate child support. Next, the court reviews the matter within 49 days of the date the motion is filed.

The court determines if a case will be scheduled and resolved in accordance with the provisions of Colorado Rule of Civil Procedure 16.2(c). Or, the case can be settled without a hearing. If child support is terminated, the parent making payments can notify their employer to stop an income assignment if one was being used.

Partner with a child support lawyer from our firm if you have concerns about getting payments or when they will end. Your attorney is your legal advocate and representative. We will review the facts of your case carefully and look for ways to help you achieve your desired outcome. Call us today at (720) 575-8092 to schedule a free 15-minute consultation.