Introduction

Child support is one of the most complex and sensitive issues in Israeli family law. When a child reaches the age of 18, many parents ask themselves: “Am I still required to pay child support?” The answer is not unequivocal and depends on a number of legal and social factors.

This guide will review Israeli law on the subject, set out the conditions and criteria for extending child support payments, and present practical examples from real cases. We will also discuss the financial and social implications of these decisions on parents and children alike.

The Law in Israel: Legal Capacity and Guardianship Law, 1962

The Basic Rule

Under the Legal Capacity and Guardianship Law of 1962, parents are legally obligated to provide for all the needs of their minor children until they reach the age of 18. This is an absolute duty arising from the very fact of being parents, regardless of their marital status or financial situation.

The Significant Exception – Section 6 of the Law

Section 6 of the Legal Capacity Law extends the support obligation beyond the age of 18 in certain cases. The section provides that parents are required to continue paying child support in the following situations:

• Academic studies – when the child studies at an institution of higher education
• Military service – during compulsory service in the IDF
• National service – during national service
• Special situations – disability, illness, or unique personal circumstances

Important to emphasize: the law does not require full child support payments as during minority, but rather a reduced payment that is generally determined by the Family Court.

Extending Child Support Payments: Conditions and Criteria

1. Academic Studies

When the child continues to academic studies, Israeli courts tend to extend the child support obligation until completion of the bachelor’s degree.

Conditions for continued payment:

• The child studies continuously (without prolonged interruptions)
• The studies are for a recognized academic degree
• The child meets their academic obligations (reasonable grades)
• The studies take place within a reasonable framework (generally up to age 25)

Payment amount:

Generally, the payment is reduced to one-third (1/3) of the support amount paid before age 18.

Practical example:

If the parent paid NIS 2,400 in support until age 18, during academic studies they would pay approximately NIS 800 per month.

2. Military Service

During compulsory IDF service, the State provides the soldier with a response to basic needs: uniforms, food, housing, and a monthly allowance. Nevertheless, the courts recognize that a soldier’s needs do not end with the basic necessities alone.

Comparison Table: Different Situations and Child Support Payments

Practical Examples from Real Cases

Case 1: Roi – Combat Military Service

Case details:

• Roi, age 19, enlisted for combat service in the IDF
• Until age 18 received support of NIS 2,200
• The father argued that the army provides for all his needs and therefore support should not continue

Court’s decision:

• The father was required to continue payment of NIS 733 (one-third of the support)
• The payment will continue until release from compulsory service
• Reasoning: although the army provides basic needs, a soldier requires additional support for civilian clothing, leisure, transportation on leave, and the like

Frequently Asked Questions – Detailed Answers

Is one obligated to pay child support after age 18?

Answer:
It depends on the child’s situation. If the child:
• Is in academic studies
• Is serving in the army or national service
• Has a disability or illness

Then yes – there is an obligation to continue paying reduced child support (generally one-third).

If the child:
• Is employed full-time
• Is not studying and not serving
• Is healthy and able to support themselves

Then no – there is no obligation to continue payment.

Need Legal Advice?

If you are dealing with questions or dilemmas regarding child support payments after age 18, we are here to help.

Vaknin Yariv Law Office specializes in family law and divorce for over a decade and has guided parents and children through hundreds of complex child support files.

For an initial consultation: 052-2288824