In the UK, child maintenance usually stops when the child turns 16, but it can continue until 20 if they stay in approved full-time education or training. It does not usually continue just because they go to university.

Simple rule

  • Age 16: maintenance often ends if the child leaves full-time education or approved training.
  • Up to age 20: it can continue if the child remains in eligible full-time education or training.
  • It may also stop earlier if the child becomes financially independent or gets married/civil partnered, depending on the arrangement.

Important timing

Maintenance does not always stop exactly on a birthday. If a child finishes approved education, payments may end on the relevant term-end date, such as 31 August, 30 November, 28/29 February, or 31 May, depending on when the course ends.

What to do next

If you pay through the Child Maintenance Service, you should report any change in education or training rather than just stopping payments yourself. Stopping without updating the case can create arrears.

Quick example

If a child leaves school at 16 and starts full-time work, maintenance usually stops. If they stay on in sixth form or another approved course, it can continue until they finish or turn 20.

SEO meta description: Child maintenance in the UK usually stops at 16, or up to 20 if the child stays in approved full-time education or training.