Each year, many married couples in California decide that it’s time to divorce. While this situation often feels stressful, things become even more so when a child or children are in the mix. After a divorce, one parent typically pays child support to the child’s other parent. Here’s more information about child support and what it’s supposed to pay for.
Understanding child support
Whether you’re the one paying for or receiving child support, it’s understandable to feel confused about this type of payment. Before delving too deep into this subject and how it related to child custody, it’s important to understand the difference between a custodial and non-custodial parent. A custodial parent is someone who has primary physical custody of their child. On the other hand, a non-custodial parent might still see their child but doesn’t have physical custody.
What expenses does child support cover?
Child support covers a wide range of expenses. This type of support can cover or help cover rent or mortgage payments. It can also help take care of clothing, food, books, and other items used by a child.
While a parent receives child support, all of this money should go to costs directly related to your children. Examples of misusing these funds can include spending child support money or clothes or entertainment for yourself. If you have money left over from previous child support payments, you should save it for your child. As any parent knows, there’s no shortage of expenses associated with having children.