Child Support in South Carolina
State-specific overview · Family Law
South Carolina uses income shares model; support ends at age 18 unless the child is still in high school.
How South Carolina treats Child Support
South Carolina calculates support by combining both parents' gross income and applying guideline percentages based on the number of children. Support continues past age 18 if the child is still enrolled full-time in high school, up to age 19. The court considers custody arrangements, health insurance, and childcare costs in the calculation. Either parent may request modification if there is a material change in circumstances, such as job loss or significant income increase.
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 South Carolina.