INDIANA CHILD SUPPORT GUIDELINES FOR COLLEGE EXPENSES: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Indiana child support guidelines for college expenses: Learn what you need to know about how the guidelines work, how college expenses are calculated, and how to get your ex-spouse to pay their share.

Indiana Child Support Guidelines for College Expenses

As a parent, you want to provide your child with the best possible education. That includes helping them pay for college. But what happens if you and your ex-spouse can't agree on how to divide the cost of college expenses? In Indiana, there are child support guidelines that can help you resolve this issue.

When do the child support guidelines apply to college expenses?

The Indiana child support guidelines apply to college expenses if the child is under the age of 19 and is enrolled in a full-time post-secondary educational institution. The guidelines also apply if the child is between the ages of 19 and 21 and is enrolled in a full-time post-secondary educational institution and is receiving financial assistance from their parents.

How are college expenses calculated under the child support guidelines?

The child support guidelines calculate college expenses by taking into account the following factors:

  • The cost of tuition and fees

  • The cost of room and board

  • The cost of books and other supplies

  • The cost of transportation

  • The child's financial aid awards

The guidelines also take into account the parents' incomes. The higher the parents' incomes, the higher the child support payment will be.

Can the court deviate from the child support guidelines for college expenses?

Yes, the court can deviate from the child support guidelines for college expenses if it finds that the guidelines are not fair or equitable under the circumstances. For example, the court may deviate from the guidelines if the child has special needs or if one parent has a significantly higher income than the other parent.

What if my ex-spouse refuses to pay their share of college expenses?

If your ex-spouse refuses to pay their share of college expenses, you can petition the court to enforce the child support order. The court can order your ex-spouse to pay you for college expenses, even if they are no longer paying child support.

If you are facing a dispute over college expenses, it is important to consult with an experienced family law attorney. An attorney can help you understand the child support guidelines and can represent you in court if necessary.

Contact an experienced family law attorney today to schedule a consultation. They can help ensure that your child receives the financial support they need to attend college.