When does the legal obligation to pay child support for a child officially end in California?

In California, the legal obligation to pay child support typically ends when your child turns 18. However, if your child is still a full-time high school student and living with a parent, the obligation continues until they graduate or turn 19, whichever occurs first. Here are the steps to take as the termination date approaches: Step 1: Identify the Termination Date Review your child's situation to find the exact date the support obligation ends. This will be their 18th birthday, their 19th birthday, or their high school graduation date, based on the rule above. Mark this date on your calendar. Step 2: Review Your Court Order Carefully read your most recent child support court order. It may contain specific language about when support terminates. If you and the other parent agreed to extend support, for example through college, that agreement will be legally binding. Step 3: Contact the Local Child Support Agency (LCSA) If your payments are managed by the LCSA, contact them at least 60 days before the termination date. Inform them of the date your support obligation will legally end and provide proof if necessary, such as the child's birth certificate or a school enrollment letter confirming their graduation date. This gives them time to stop any automatic wage garnishments. Step 4: Confirm Payment of Arrears The termination of ongoing child support does not eliminate any past-due support, known as arrears. Contact the LCSA or check the court record to confirm your arrears balance, if any. You must continue making payments until all arrears and any accrued interest are paid in full. Important details and nuances: An exception exists for a child of any age who is incapacitated from earning a living and does not have sufficient means. Under California Family Code Section 3910, a court can order both parents to provide support for as long as the incapacity continues. Also, parents can mutually agree in a written court order to provide support for a longer period, such as through college. Warnings and limitations: Do not simply stop paying without taking action. If a wage garnishment is in place, your employer will continue to withhold funds until they receive an official notice to stop. You may need to file a formal request with the court to terminate the support order and the income withholding order to ensure payments cease correctly. This is general information and does not constitute legal advice. For complex situations, such as cases involving arrears or an incapacitated adult child, consult with a qualified California attorney.