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 Washington State, child support obligations typically end when a child reaches the age of majority, which is 18 years old, or graduates from high school, whichever is later. However, if the child is still enrolled in high school on their 18th birthday, support continues until the child graduates or turns 19, whichever comes first. If a child joins the military, gets married before reaching the age of majority, or is legally emancipated, they are considered independent, and the child support obligation may be terminated. However, this termination is not automatic; the parent must petition the court that issued the original child support order to have the obligation ended. Additionally, if the child has special needs or has not graduated from high school by the age of majority, the parent may be required to continue support. It is important for parents to consult with an attorney to understand their rights and obligations regarding child support under Washington law.