Can I be made to pay for my step kids' college?

[smalltown2]

[New York] They are only 10 and 13, but I want to see if I can be made to pay for my stepkids' college, and if there are any steps I should take to prevent it.

My husband and I have been married for about 2 years. With child support, he has a negative gross income. I make up the difference. I'm also preparing to pay his 35K in debt so we can start saving for retirement.

I am totally unprepared to fund his children's college on top of this. He understands. His separation agreement doesn't say he has to pay for college, but has him pay child support at the regular rate until they turn 22. Both parents have done a poor job preparing financially for their children's education. I sympathize, but I don't feel I can or should fix it for them.

Right now my business is successful. Assuming it's still going strong when the kids hit college, and their mothers notice that we are doing well, can my income be tapped to pay for their college? Right now I'd prefer we file taxes jointly; it saves money. But if we shouldn't, then I can change that. We have already filed jointly for one year (last).

Appreciate your thoughts ...

 

[moburkes]

Child support ends at 21 in NY, unless he agreed to extend it. Explain how he has a negative gross income. No, you are not responsible for his children's college education, just as you are not responsible for that $35k debt.

 

[smalltown2]

Child support ends at 21 in NY, unless he agreed to extend it.

I believe he said 22, but I could be wrong.

Explain how he has a negative gross income.

Of course you're right, I should NEVER post before my first cup of coffee.

No, you are not responsible for his children's college education, just as you are not responsible for that $35k debt.

Thank you, greatly appreciate your reply.