College Expenses for Divorced Parents in Illinois

 Posted on December 23, 2022 in Divorce

 Paying for college is already a significant financial burden but can be even more complicated when receiving child support. If you are a parent receiving child support who is trying to help your children pay for college, there are specific steps you can take to ensure that your obligations and responsibilities are met. Here, we will discuss navigating college expenses with child support in Illinois. 

Child Support Obligations and Responsibilities 

If the noncustodial parent (or supporting parent) is obligated to pay child support, they must continue making payments until the child reaches 18 years of age or completes high school. The obligation ceases at age 19 or when the child graduates from high school (whichever comes first). In Illinois, if it is determined that additional payments must be made for college expenses, both parents can agree on an amount or have the court decide. It is important to note that any agreement between parents must comply with state laws and regulations. 

Co-parents who are divorced may want to consider their options when it comes to college expenses for their children. In Illinois, parents are required by law to provide financial assistance for a child’s post-secondary education if they have the means or ability to do so. This includes covering tuition and related expenses such as room and board, books, and supplies. 

Parents may agree to split the costs of college in their divorce agreement, but if they fail to do so, the court can order one or both parents to provide financial assistance for college expenses. Generally, the amount each parent is obligated to pay depends on the income of both parties and other factors such as how much each parent has contributed to the child’s education up to that point. 

The court may also consider other factors such as the number of children in the family, whether either party is disabled or retired, and any special circumstances related to why one parent cannot contribute financially.

Seeking Legal Help 

To work out a plan that meets everyone’s needs, it is best to seek legal advice from an attorney specializing in family law issues such as divorce, custody arrangements, and college expenses. An experienced lawyer can help guide you through this process by discussing different options available and helping you reach a fair agreement between both parties involved in the case. Additionally, an attorney can assist with paperwork filing and document preparation so that all agreements meet state regulations.  

Contact a Rolling Meadows Child Support Lawyer Today

Navigating college expenses while receiving child support can be complex, but understanding your rights and obligations under state laws will help ensure that everything runs smoothly throughout this process. Call our Illinois family law attorney for help at 847-253-3100.

Source: 

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/documents/075000050k513.htm