Am I Responsible for My Child’s College Bills After a Divorce in Illinois?

 Posted on June 06, 2022 in Child Support

Every parent wants to see their child grow up to be a successful adult. Post-secondary education, whether at a university, community college, or technical training, can be incredibly important for a young adult’s career and earning potential throughout their lifetime. After a divorce, you may be unclear about who is responsible for providing financial assistance for your child’s college expenses, especially since they are no longer a minor. Under Illinois law, unlike most other states, a spouse can seek financial support from their ex after a divorce, even after the child turns 18.

Educational Assistance After a Divorce

While in many divorce cases, child support payments end after the child turns 18. However, Illinois law allows a divorced parent to seek educational expenses for their child from the other parent. Many divorcing parents may come to an agreement on each’s share of postsecondary education costs, either as part of the divorce settlement or in post-divorce agreements. However, if there is disagreement on the amount of support or even whether support should be provided, the case may end up in court. A judge will decide on each parent’s share of educational expenses based on their financial situation, as well as the financial resources that the child has or could obtain through financial aid or scholarships.

The share of education expenses that the parents are responsible for covering can include tuition, room, board, books, medical insurance, other medical and dental expenses, transportation, and other reasonable living expenses. The student is responsible for maintaining at least a C average. The amount is limited to the cost of in-state tuition, fees, and on-campus housing at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign during the same year unless good cause is shown for the need for higher costs. The student, in most cases, must be no older than 23 to receive the support.

Even before college begins, the financial support could be used for up to five college applications, two college entrance exams, such as the ACT or SAT, as well as one exam prep course.

Contact a DuPage County Child Support Lawyer

Whether you are seeking financial help for your child or if you are the one being asked to contribute, the Naperville divorce attorneys at Calabrese Associates, P.C. can provide you with the representation you need. We will make sure that you contribute or receive a fair share based on your financial situation. Call our office at 630-393-3111 to set up your initial consultation.

Source:

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