Until when is child support paid?

The maintenance obligation does not end automatically when a child turns 18. The key question is whether the child can be self‑supporting. Courts therefore look at the child’s real situation and the parent’s capacity, not age alone.

What child support is and when it applies

Child support covers the child’s maintenance and development. The duty arises when the child cannot support themselves or their needs are not met by the other parent. Basics: Maintenance obligation — what it is.

How long the obligation lasts

The obligation lasts as long as the child is not self‑supporting. Courts consider, among other things:

• whether the child is genuinely studying,
• whether they work or have real earning capacity,
• the actual costs of maintenance and development,
• the parents’ financial situation.

There is no fixed age limit.

What “self‑supporting” means in practice

Self‑support means a real ability to cover one’s own living costs, not just turning 18. Courts look at whether the child:

• has stable income or realistic earning capacity,
• genuinely continues education,
• faces typical, justified costs for their age and situation.

It is about real independence, not a formal status.

Support for an adult child

After 18, the duty may continue if the child still studies or cannot support themselves. Courts assess the reality of education and the child’s situation. See: Child support for an adult child.

When the obligation may end despite studying

Studying does not automatically extend the obligation. Courts may consider ending it if, for example:

• education is only nominal or repeatedly interrupted,
• there is no real progress,
• the child can work but refuses without good reason.

Each case is assessed individually.

Child with disability or illness

If a child has long‑term health limitations that prevent self‑support, the obligation can last longer, regardless of age. Courts assess the actual impact on daily functioning and ability to work.

When the obligation ends

Most often when the child becomes financially independent. In practice, ending the duty usually requires proving a change in circumstances, such as stable work, completed education, or lack of justified costs.

To end or reduce support, you usually need a court claim: Reduction or termination of child support.

How to prove a change in circumstances

Courts rely on evidence. Typical documents include:

• proof of employment or income of the child,
• documents showing completion of education,
• lists of the parent’s income and expenses,
• communication showing the child refused work or training.

How courts set the amount

Courts assess needs and capacity. Detailed criteria: Child support amounts: criteria and rules.

Common mistakes

• relying only on age (“they are 18”),
• no evidence of the child’s independence,
• ignoring education or health‑related costs,
• confusing reduction with termination.

Quick checklist for a parent

• Is the child truly self‑supporting?
• Do I have evidence of the change?
• Do I seek reduction or termination?
• Do I have a clear cost breakdown and income data?

Related guides

If you are filing the initial petition, see: Child support petition: how to file step by step. For changing the amount, see: Increase of child support — when and how.

Child support calculator

You can use the child support calculator as a reference point, but it is not binding and should be compared with real costs and evidence.

Sources

• Family and Guardianship Code (ISAP)
• Ministry of Justice - official information