Maximizing the Benefits of Child Support for Your Child

Understanding Child Support: More Than Just a Financial Obligation

Child support transcends being merely a financial duty or bonus check; it functions as a structured plan to ensure that children receive the necessary support, even when parents reside separately. Whether you're on the receiving or providing end of child support, comprehending its workings can ensure your child fully benefits from it. The key components of child support include Basic Support, Child Care Support, and Medical Support.

What Does Basic Support Include?

Basic support is designed to cover the essential needs of children, such as housing, food, clothing, transportation, and education supplies. Its goal is to maintain stability in a child's daily life. In Minnesota, basic support calculations are adjusted according to the time each parent spends with their child, so parents with more overnight stays contribute directly in line with those terms. The formula factors in actual parenting time and income, creating a balanced approach.

Dividing Medical Support Fairly

Medical support encompasses health insurance premiums and out-of-pocket expenses not covered by insurance, such as co-pays, braces, or prescriptions. The Parental Income for Child Support (PICS) system is used to decide how these costs are split between parents, based on the percentage of total income each parent earns. Thus, even if it's not a 50/50 split, both parents share responsibility, whether or not they carry the insurance.

The Role of Child Care Support

Child care support applies when a parent requires child care due to work or education, not for social or casual reasons. This support aims to assist parents in their endeavors to provide for their child, be it through work or education. Minnesota's approach considers tax credits and each parent's share of income in calculating these costs. Significant changes, like a child starting full-time school, might call for reevaluation.

Comprehensive Monthly Obligations

The total child support payment is a combination of basic, medical, and child care support, although it's presented as a single amount. It excludes “extraordinary expenses” such as summer camps, private schooling, tutoring, or sports, which require clear court orders or mutual agreements to be covered.

When to Review or Modify Child Support

If circumstances change, like increased medical expenses or reduced childcare costs, it can prompt a reassessment of support needs. For those paying support, keeping thorough records can validate that contributions are used correctly, facilitating transparency and protecting your investment. For guidance in child support modifications or to clarify its structure, Maury Beaulier Law is here to assist you in ensuring the order aligns with your child’s needs and current realities. Contact us for help with understanding the complexities and focusing on what matters: your child.

 

Call Attorney Maury D. Beaulier for a consultation.