College Expenses and How They Are Handled After an Illinois Divorce

 Posted on November 06, 2018 in Family Law

In Illinois, child support payments end when the child turns 18 years old or when he or she graduates from high school, whichever comes later. The ending of high school does not mean that both parents are done contributing to the child’s living expenses, though. Under Illinois law, parents are also subject to “non-minor support,” which is typically used while the child is in college. Many times, you can address this issue before your divorce is finalized by putting who will pay what in the divorce agreement. If you did not address this issue before you finalize your divorce, do not fret. You can still address this issue with a divorce lawyer or in court if need be.

Expenses That Are Covered

It is not just tuition that is covered under the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act. The Act states that educational expenses can include:

• Up to five college applications;
• Two standardized college entrance exams;
• One standardized college entrance exam preparatory course;
• Housing expenses, including a meal plan;
• Tuition and fees;
• Medical expenses, including dental expenses;
• Living expenses, such as food, utilities and transportation; and
• Books and other supplies needed to attend school.

Making Decisions About College Expenses

Not all parents are required to cover their child’s college. Illinois courts understand that not all parents have the financial means to pay for such expenses. When making determinations about requirements for paying these expenses, the courts look at:

• The current and future financial situation of both parents;
• The current and future ability of both parents to meet their own needs, including saving for retirement;
• The standard of living the child would have had if the parents had not divorced;
• The financial resources of the child; and
• The child’s academic performance.

Our DuPage County Divorce Attorneys Can Help

Though the easiest way to make sure that your child’s college expenses are taken care of is to address it in your divorce agreement, you can also revisit the issue after your divorce is finalized if need be. Either way, a qualified Hinsdale, IL divorce lawyer can help you come to a decision about how college expenses will be split and how they will be paid. The Law Office of Martoccio & Martoccio has decades of divorce litigation experience and can help you get the best outcome possible. Call our office today at 630-920-8855 to schedule a consultation.

Source:

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