Managing Adult Child Support in a Gray Divorce

 Posted on September 25, 2025 in Adult Children and Divorce

Divorce later in life, known as gray divorce, comes with different challenges. For people in their 50s or 60s, the focus is often on money, retirement, and family duties instead of custody of young children. One issue that surprises many older parents contemplating divorce is the question of supporting adult children.

If you are going through a divorce you may be wondering: Do we still have to provide child support now that our children are grown? The answer depends on your circumstances and Illinois law. If you are worried about this situation, you can count on our Kane County gray divorce attorneys for help. Our firm has extensive experience guiding older adults through divorce and offers free consultations to help you understand your options.

Standard Child Support Ends at 18

Under Illinois law (750 ILCS 5/505), child support usually ends when a child turns 18 or graduates from high school, whichever comes later. For most families, this means traditional child support obligations are no longer part of a gray divorce.

However, Illinois law also recognizes that parental responsibility does not always end at 18. Two major exceptions may apply for college expenses and disabled adult children who still need support.

Adult Child Support: College Expense Contributions

Illinois is one of the few states that allows courts to order divorced parents to contribute to their child’s college education. Under 750 ILCS 5/513, either parent can ask the court for help with tuition, housing, books, and living expenses. This is technically not considered child support, but rather educational support for a non-minor child.

For parents in a gray divorce, this can pose a tricky problem. You may be planning retirement, splitting pensions, or cutting expenses, and now you also have to think about college costs. Thankfully, courts do consider factors such as each parent’s income, the cost of the school, and the student’s own resources (including scholarships or employment).

Disabled Adult Children

Illinois law also allows support to continue for adult children with disabilities who are unable to live independently. Courts can order parents to contribute to ongoing care, housing, and medical expenses.

For couples divorcing in their later years, this can be a critical issue. Planning for a disabled adult child often means working out money, benefits, and legal duties for the long term.

Contact a St. Charles, IL Gray Divorce Lawyer

If you are going through a gray divorce and have questions about adult child support, get help sooner rather than later. A Kane County, IL divorce attorney at Divorce Over 50 - Goostree Law Group can explain your rights and guide you toward solutions that balance family responsibilities with retirement planning. With decades of experience representing older adults, our firm is here to help. Call 630-634-5050 today to schedule your free consultation.