Managing child support payments is important to make sure that the payments are being made accurately and on time. Both the parents, including the ones receiving payments and the ones making the payments, benefit from keeping organized records.
Plus, managing child support payments is even better when using efficient payment methods. However, if any conflict arises between the divorced couple, a divorce lawyer can come in handy.
Renowned law firms like Turco Legal help divorced parents understand how they can manage their child support payments on legal terms.
What are the primary expenses child support covers?
The following are a few primary expenses that are covered in child support payments:
1. Basic necessities
The first purpose behind starting Chai support payments is to make sure that the child gets all the basic necessities required. These necessities can include things like housing, food, clothing, etc.
2. Education funds
The most important coverage in child support payments is educational costs that go beyond just tuition fees. These educational costs can include school supplies, fees and activities, and tutoring or special programs.
3. Medical or healthcare expenses
Managing medical or healthcare expenses is an essential part of child care, which is covered by child support. The medical expenses help pay for health insurance, expensive medical costs, or special needs like covering additional therapies one might need.
4. Daycare or after-school program fees
If the parent who has custody of the child works or needs any kind of assistance with child care, the child support can cover expenses like daycare or babysitting. Moreover, any after-school programs can also be covered under child support payments.
5. Recreational activities
Funds like recreational activities are always covered in child support as it is important for the child’s proper growth in other activities and hobbies. For example, recreational activities like sports, hobbies, or even things that bring entertainment to the child.
6. Transportation costs
Transportation costs are another expense covered under child support payments as they ensure that the child is taken anywhere safely. These expenses cover public transit or gas and car maintenance to help the child attend school, appointments, and extracurricular activities.
Key Ways to Manage Child Support Payment –
Here are a few key ways to manage child support payments strategically:
1. Keeping records
Keeping records of the payments is very important for both parents. The record can be maintained by writing down the date, the payment amount, and the money transfer method. Suppose there is mail involved that also needs to be noted.
These records come in handy when there is a disagreement about the payments between the parents, and they can serve as proof if any question arises later.
2. Using income withholding
One of the most reliable methods for ensuring payment consistency is income withholding. In this method, the employer of the non-custodial parent sends money directly to the custodial parent’s account.
This method helps reduce the chance of any payment missouts and also gives peace of mind to both parents.
3. Request a modified payment schedule
If the non-custodial parent is struggling financially and can’t keep up with the payments, they can also request a modified payment schedule. This can be only allowed if the financially struggling parent is showing evidence that the finances are going downhill.
4. Request reviewing the amount of child support
Either of the parents can review the decided child support amount to make sure that it is aligned with the current financial needs and income levels. Formally reviewing the child support amount can help in ensuring that the child support payments are fair and reasonable.
5. Use a payment portal to manage child support payments
Many states in the U.S.A. offer online portals for parents to track the payments made under the child support category. With the help of these portals, they can monitor the history of payments received or even cancel a payment if necessary.