Divorce brings many changes to a family, especially regarding finances. Parents might understandably wonder who will pay for a child’s higher education after a divorce.
This issue ties closely to child support, which is a payment made by the non-custodial parent to the custodial parent to help cover the child’s living expenses. However, higher education costs can be substantial and require special consideration.
Child support and higher education
When parents divorce, they must decide on several key financial matters, including child support. Typically, child support helps cover basic needs like food, clothing and shelter. However, higher education expenses are not always included in these calculations. Courts may need to intervene to determine how these costs will be shared.
Education support in Connecticut
Connecticut child support laws specifically address college expenses in the context of divorce. The court can order parents to contribute to their child’s college costs. The court looks at factors like each parent’s income, the child’s needs and the standard of living the child would have enjoyed if the marriage had not ended.
Building a separation agreement
Parents can also reach an agreement about paying for college, which can be part of the divorce settlement. Such agreements outline each parent’s responsibilities and contributions toward college expenses. They provide clarity and prevent future disputes.
Abiding by the court’s decision
If the court gets involved, the judge considers several factors. These include the financial resources of both parents, the child’s academic performance and the cost of the college the child wishes to attend. The court also considers any financial aid or scholarships the child receives.
The responsibility of paying for a child’s higher education after divorce depends on several factors. Parents must work together to ensure their child’s future remains bright and that higher education expenses are adequately planned and covered.