Your child support order will specify when payments begin, the amount to pay each month, and how long support will be paid. However, child support payments will typically continue until the minor child reaches the age of 18 or graduates from high school, whichever occurs last. If the child reaches the age of 19 while still in high school, the obligation to pay child support will usually end on their 19th birthday.   In some circumstances, a parent’s obligation to pay support may be extended beyond these guidelines. For example, if the child has a physical or mental disability that prevents them from being able to support themselves, the paying parent’s child support duties could continue indefinitely or until they are receiving disability or other support which might cover their expenses, lessening the need for child support. The original divorce decree or child support court order will specify if there are any special circumstances in your case, but if the disability occurs after the order is issued, a modification will likely be needed. However, it is important to note that once the child support is terminated, it cannot be reactivated. If you would like to modify your child support, it is imperative you make this request before the child turns 18 or completes high school.