Task 11: States’ Child Support Guidelines for Children with Disabilities

This report explores the issue of setting child support for children with special needs. Estimates show an increase in the number of children with special needs over the last few decades. The children’s needs are wide and varied, which can make the cost to raise these children high. A parent may need to provide full-time care, which limits the parent’s ability to earn. Child support is critical for these families. Federal regulations provide no guidance in setting support for special-needs children. The report reviews two ways states deal with support for children with disabilities: within the guidelines and by extending support beyond the age of majority.