Child support obligations generally terminate, as provided by the child support order from the court, when the child reaches the age of majority (18 in most states). If a parent is obligated to pay child support and the child becomes emancipated before reaching the age of majority in the state (usually 18), the parent may no longer have to pay child support. But the child support obligation in this circumstance does not terminate automatically, and the parent generally must seek an order terminating the support obligation from the court that issued the child support order. And if the child has special needs (health care, living, education), the parent may be required to pay child support even after the child reaches the age of majority or is emancipated.

In Mississippi, child support obligations typically end when the child reaches the age of 21, which is the age of majority in this state, rather than 18 as in most other states. However, if a child becomes emancipated before reaching the age of 21, the parent's obligation to pay child support does not automatically cease. The parent must petition the court that issued the original child support order to seek termination of the support obligation. Emancipation can occur through marriage, joining the military, or by court order. Additionally, if the child has special needs, Mississippi law may require the parent to continue support past the age of majority. This could include extended support for healthcare, living expenses, or education. It is important for parents to consult with an attorney to understand their rights and obligations regarding child support, especially in cases involving emancipation or special needs.