When can a child support obligation continue until the age of 21 or 22?

Child support obligations can extend until the child reaches the age of 21 or 22 primarily when the child is still in college. Many jurisdictions recognize that further education plays a critical role in a young adult's future financial stability and independence. Therefore, if a child is enrolled in a post-secondary institution, even if they are over the age of 18, the obligation to provide support can continue to ensure that the child's educational needs are met.

In this scenario, the focus is on the child's educational status rather than their employment status, living arrangements, or marital status. The reasoning is based on the idea that completing higher education can significantly impact a child's ability to become financially self-sufficient. Options like getting a job, living with the non-custodial parent, or getting married do not inherently justify the need for continued financial support, as they may indicate that the child is transitioning into independence regardless of their educational pursuits.