As a parent, you’ve already shouldered many education-related expenses—from meals to school uniforms—covering these costs as part of your overall child support. But with your child now approaching graduation, who is responsible for paying for college?

The law does not require you to cover college expenses, although many parents choose to do so voluntarily. At Barton & Associates Attorneys at Law, PLLC, we can guide you through the divorce process and help you understand all of your rights and obligations regarding funding your children’s education.  

When Does Child Support End?

One of the main reasons why you are not obligated to pay for college is that your legal obligation to provide child support ends before they are likely to head to campus. Under the Texas Family Code, you must pay child support until your child either turns 18 or graduates from high school, whichever comes later. In most cases, both events happen before college begins, meaning the child support obligation typically ends before college starts. 

Additionally, the State explicitly relieves parents of the obligation to pay for college expenses as part of their child support. This expense is generally left to the student if they decide to attend.

What if Parents Agree to Pay for College?

If you voluntarily promise to pay for your child’s college expenses, you may be held to it. While a verbal promise is not enough to bind you, some parents formally enter into a contract to share the costs of higher education. These college support agreements are binding, but they are not enforceable in the same way as a child support debt.

When you fall behind on child support, the other parent can pursue legal options to garnish your wages, place a lien on your property, and take a variety of other enforcement actions. In these cases, the only remedy is a lawsuit for breach of contract.

Common Qualifying College Expenses

There are a number of expenses that may be covered in college support agreements. They include the following:

• Tuition
• Studying abroad
• Books
• Rent
• Electronics
• Travel
• Furniture
• Club membership and dues

An agreement to cover the cost of college should spell out what is and is not the parent’s responsibility.

Learn About Your Options with Barton & Associates Attorneys At Law, PLLC

If you are trying to navigate the divorce process with your child’s educational future in mind, the team at Barton & Associates Attorneys at Law, PLLC, is here to help. We will work tirelessly to help you make arrangements that are right for you and your family. Contact us today to learn more about your child support options during a free and private consultation.