Child support obligations generally end when the child reaches the age of majority as defined by state law (usually 18-21) or graduates from high school. If a child joins the military or gets married before reaching the age of majority, or successfully petitions the court for emancipation (“to remove the disabilities of minority”), the child will be emancipated and child support obligations will usually be terminated. 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) or has not graduated from high school by the age of majority, the parent may be required to pay child support even after the child reaches the age of majority or is emancipated.

In Minnesota, child support obligations typically end when a child turns 18, which is the age of majority, or graduates from high school, whichever is later. However, if a child under 18 joins the military, gets married, or is legally emancipated, the child is considered independent, and the parent's obligation to pay child support may end. It's important to note that the termination of child support in these cases is not automatic; the parent must petition the court that issued the original child support order to terminate the obligation. Additionally, if the child has special needs or has not graduated from high school by the age of 18, the parent may be required to continue support. In some cases, support may continue until the child turns 20 if they are still attending secondary school. Parents should consult with an attorney to understand their specific obligations and the process for modifying child support orders in Minnesota.