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Legal Information: Virginia

Child Support

Laws current as of July 8, 2024

How long does child support last?

Generally, a child support obligation will continue until the child reaches the age of 18. However, the court will order that the support continue after the child reaches the age of 18 in the following cases:

  • The order can be extended until the child reaches 19 or graduates high school, whichever comes first if the child is:
    • a full-time high school student;
    • not self-supporting; and
    • living in the home of the parent (or other guardian) seeking support; or
  • The order can be extended for a time period to be determined when the child is:
    • severely and permanently mentally or physically disabled;
    • unable to live independently and support him/herself; 
    • living in the home of the parent seeking support.1

The court may also extend a support obligation after the child reaches the age of 18 if both parents agree to it and request the extension.1

1 Va. Code § 20-124.2(C)

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