Divorce can be financially taxing, even for the wealthiest of families. When a divorce is contested, it can be even more expensive and time-consuming than expected. For those who have children, child support can be one of the most important financial aspects of divorce. Ensuring that your children are adequately provided for may mean that you need to include child-related expenses above and beyond what typical child support payments provide.
Expenses to Consider Adding to Your Support Order
In some cases, a child may have additional needs or expenses that the custodial parent needs assistance with. In these cases, the custodial parent can request that these additional expenses be added to the child support order so the cost can be split between the parents. Though parents can create their own individual child support agreements containing whatever provisions they see fit, the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act provides for specific child-related expenses that may be added to the support order. These expenses include:
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Medical Expenses – Either one or both parents must provide health insurance for the child or obtain state-sponsored health insurance if it is not available from their employer. You may be able to add certain medical expenses to your child support order if they are not covered by insurance. These expenses can include things like prescription medication costs, co-pays, portions of medical costs not covered by insurance, and costs related to dental or vision care.
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Extracurricular/School Expenses – Enrolling your child in things like soccer or ballet is not free. If your child participates in any extracurricular activities, you can also include those expenses in your child support order. In addition, school expenses, such as private school tuition, can also be included in child support orders.
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Childcare Expenses – After divorce, most parents must return to the workforce, even if they did not work during the marriage. This means parents with young children must find childcare during the day while they are at work. Childcare can become expensive, but adding those expenses to your support order can help immensely.
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College Expenses – Once your child turns 18 or graduates from high school, the non-custodial parent is no longer required to make child support payments. However, if your child pursues post-secondary education, you can include provisions in your child support order stating which parent will be responsible for various expenses that may arise from having a child in college.
Speak to Our Wheaton, IL Child Support Attorney Today
Divorcing with children can be difficult for some parents, especially if the child-related issues are contested. At The Stogsdill Law Firm, P.C., we understand how important it is for you to be able to provide your child with everything they need. Our skilled team of DuPage County child support attorneys has helped countless parents obtain the support they need for their children. To begin discussing your case, schedule a consultation today by calling our office at 630-462-9500.
Sources:
https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs5.asp?ActID=2086&ChapterID=59