Navigating College Expenses After an Illinois Divorce

 Posted on August 24, 2023 in Child Support

Divorce can have a significant impact on the financial aspects of supporting your child’s higher education. Today, we will explore how college expenses are typically managed after an Illinois divorce, including the role of child support and how it can be extended to cover college education costs, even for non-minor children. If you are concerned with how your divorce may affect your child’s ability to seek a college education, contact a divorce attorney to get the help you need during this consequential time in your life and your child’s.

Understanding Child Support and College Expenses

In Illinois, child support obligations typically end when the child turns 18 or graduates from high school. However, as part of a divorce settlement, parents may choose to negotiate and include provisions for college expenses. This ensures that both parents contribute to their child’s education, even after the traditional obligation of child support ends.

College Expenses and Divorce Settlements

During divorce proceedings, parents may negotiate and agree upon how college expenses will be handled. This arrangement can include provisions for tuition fees, books, room and board, transportation, and other relevant expenses related to higher education. The extent to which each parent contributes may depend on their financial resources, ability to pay, and the child’s overall financial assistance package.

Lengthening Child Support for College Expenses

In some cases, divorcing parents may agree to extend child support beyond the customary age to help cover college costs. This may include provisions for payments during the child’s undergraduate studies and potentially even for postgraduate education. The duration of the extended support can vary and should be detailed in the settlement document for clarity.

Factors Considered in College Expense Determinations

When it comes to determining the extent of each parent’s financial responsibility for college expenses, several factors may come into play. These can include the child’s academic potential, their ability to contribute financially, each parent’s income, their overall financial satiation, and what is in the child’s best interest. The court may consider factors such as the child’s scholastic achievements, intended field of study, and the cost of attending college.

Modifying College Expenses Provisions

Establishing precise wording and guidelines in the divorce settlement regarding college expenses is essential. However, circumstances may change over time, and modifications might be necessary. Either parent can seek modification if there is a significant change in their financial situation or the circumstances surrounding the child’s education have changed.

Contact a Kane County Divorce Lawyer

If your child’s college education is a factor in your divorce, contact the experienced St. Charles divorce attorneys with Weiler & Associates, Inc.. Call 630-331-9110 for a private consultation.

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