When Does Child Support End in Iowa?

Article written by Illinois Attorney Kevin O’Flaherty

In this article, we will answer questions about “At what age does child support end in Iowa?”, “What other circumstances can cause child support to end?”, and “What if my child receives support for college?”.

At What Age Does Child Support End in Iowa?

An obligation of child support continues for every child between the age of eighteen and nineteen provided that the child is engaged full-time in completing high school graduation or equivalency requirements and is reasonably expected to complete said requirements prior to the child reaching nineteen years of age. The obligation may also include a child of any age that is deemed dependent on the party due to physical or mental disability. However, a child support order does not necessarily end automatically when the child reaches the age of eighteen or nineteen. The obligation may continue until the noncustodial parent files a legal petition to terminate the order, depending on the language in the order. Consult an attorney to see if a “Motion to Terminate the Income Withholding Order” must be submitted with the Court before your support order can legally conclude. For more information about about Child Support, see our article entitled Iowa Child Support Law Explained.