Child Support in Vermont
State-specific overview · Family Law
Vermont uses income shares model; support ends at age 18 unless child remains in secondary school full-time.
How Vermont treats Child Support
Vermont calculates child support from both parents' combined income using statutory guidelines and adjustment factors. Support obligations generally end when a child turns 18, but continue if the child is enrolled full-time in secondary school, up to age 19. The state allows deviation from guidelines when application would be unjust or inappropriate given specific statutory factors. Vermont requires consideration of childcare and health insurance costs in the support calculation.
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 Vermont.