Covering your child’s needs without breaking the bank

The end of a marriage will inevitably bring about a change in the lives of everyone involved. While certain aspects of a divorce can be challenging, such as the division of property and assets, you may consider the topic of child support to be of the utmost importance. If you are transitioning from a two-person income to a single income, ensuring the ability to meet your child’s needs while not becoming financially overwhelmed may be crucial.

Perhaps you are wondering how to calculate a proper amount for support. You probably want to make sure your children have everything they need throughout the process of growing up, but you likely don’t want to fund your former spouse’s endeavors in the process.

Determining a fair amount for child support

When determining the amount for child support, there are several key factors in the process, such as the income of both parents, the number of children and the specific custody arrangement. Perhaps you are aware of these aspects, but you still have some concerns regarding the use of your support money. Proper uses of child support may include the following:

• Needs:  Your children will likely be needing supplies and clothing for school. Any fees that go along with this part of life are typically also a proper use of child support.
• Activities:  Kids often choose to undertake various extra-curricular activities throughout their childhoods. Child support can assist in paying for activities such as sports and lessons.
• Medical:  Any medical expenses, such as a need for glasses or dental care, would be a proper use of child support.
• Miscellaneous:  You will likely want your money to cover basic needs, such as food and furnishings for your children. Items such as books and/or toys are also a valid use of your support.

While it can be difficult, if not impossible, to know exactly how your former spouse will use this money, you can take steps during negotiations to ensure that your children don’t suffer in any way.

Where can I turn for assistance?

Children grow up quickly, and if you are going through a divorce, you will still want them to have everything they need to be able to thrive. However, you might want to avoid a heated support battle that could leave you in a perpetual financial struggle. A family law attorney in Arizona can provide you with guidance throughout this stressful and challenging process that may prove beneficial to ensuring you are either paying or receiving an adequate amount of support that will cover all your children’s needs.

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