Child support is designed to provide children with the necessary financial support to meet their needs and maintain their well-being, even when their parents are no longer living together. While many may assume child support only covers basic needs like food and shelter, Illinois law recognizes that raising a child involves a wide range of expenses, such as healthcare, education, and extracurricular activities.
By understanding what child support includes, parents can effectively navigate family law issues and provide for their children. An experienced Illinois family law attorney can guide you through child support matters and help protect the well-being of your children.
What Basic Expenses Does Child Support Cover?
At its core, child support is intended to provide for a child’s essential needs. Under Illinois’ Income Shares Model, child support is calculated based on both parents’ incomes to determine an appropriate amount for necessities, including: