When one thinks of caring for and supporting a child, they typically think that it will end when that child becomes a legal adult at the age of eighteen. But what happens when a child has been deemed incapable of caring for themselves due to a disability? Parents may discover that, in these cases, child support can continue on throughout adulthood. 

When is Child Support Necessary for Children Over 18?

18 is considered the legal age at which a child officially becomes an adult. Most neuro-typical young adults can then hold a full-time job, provide for themselves, get their own apartment or house, and get married. However, for disabled children, this may not be the case. Those who suffer from physical or mental disabilities may be unable to provide for themselves after their 18th birthday. This means that they will need the support of their caretakers or parents. If parents are divorced, one of them will likely be required to continue making child support payments well beyond their child’s 18th birthday. However, if a child develops the disability after they turn 18 usually child support cannot be required.  

Do Benefits Make a Difference?

Sometimes, those with disabilities may be entitled to certain types of assistance such as Social Security or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). As a general rule, Social Security payments that are received thanks to the work of a parent may actually lower that parent’s child support payments. On the other hand, SSI, which requires no work from either parent, may make little impact on the payments that are due.  

When Will Child Support End?

Child support is used to ensure that the child receives the best life possible without financially burdening only one parent. If a child is deemed disabled, the other parent will continue to receive child support payments until it can be proven in court that either the disability has improved or that the child can provide for themselves. 

How Can I Navigate Adult Child Support?

Dealing with adult child support for disabled children can be a tricky situation for both individuals and the court system. Whether you are a parent that is looking to get child support to help care for a disabled child, or a parent that is facing the possibility of continued payments, it’s important to have the help of a trusted attorney. A family attorney can help you understand your rights, make sure that no one is unfairly using the child support payments, and ensure that child support is received when necessary.

Everyone wants the very best for their children. Unfortunately, some parents discover that certain disabilities will make life more difficult for their precious kids. With the use of adult child support, parents can work together to ensure that their child is given the best future possible.