Child Support in New Jersey
State-specific overview · Family Law
New Jersey uses income shares model; support extends to age 23 for college-bound children in most cases.
How New Jersey treats Child Support
New Jersey calculates child support using the income shares model, combining both parents' incomes up to a statutory cap. Support continues until age 19 for non-college-bound children, but extends to age 23 if the child attends college full-time and remains dependent. Both parents share responsibility for college costs proportionally to their incomes. The state allows modification when income changes significantly or when custody or parenting time arrangements change materially.
The general definition of Child Support
Court-ordered payments from one parent to the other for a child's living expenses.
Child support is money that a court requires one parent to pay to the other parent (or guardian) to help cover the child's expenses like food, housing, education, and healthcare. The amount is usually calculated using state guidelines that consider both parents' incomes, the number of children, and custody arrangements. Child support continues until the child reaches the age of majority, typically 18 or 21 depending on the state. It's a legal obligation separate from custody decisions.
Read the full Child Support entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in New Jersey.