- Why do parents have to pay child support?
- Parents have a legal and moral obligation to provide their children with the necessities of life.
Are both parents required to provide support? - Yes. The non-custodial (non-residential) parent, regardless of sex, will normally have a cash obligation even if the custodial parent does not need the money. The custodial parent is expected to provide for the expenses of running a household in addition to clothing, transportation, etc. In determining the cash obligation, both parents' household incomes, earning capabilities and needs of the children are taken into consideration. U.S. law now requires all states to develop child support guidelines to promote uniformity of court orders.
If physical custody is shared for long or frequent periods of time, how is support determined? - Depending on the financial circumstances of the parents, the needs of the children, and the time actually spent with each parent, support payments may or may not be required and may be subject to state guidelines. Courts encourage mediated or negotiated agreements in these situations.
Can child support be given directly to the children? - No, except in very limited circumstances as determined by the court.
Does support have to be spent directly on the children? - No. Household expenses such as rent, mortgage and utilities are considered part of the costs of raising children.
Are there child support obligations beyond the regular support payments? - Yes. Such expenses might include medical insurance, medical and dental needs, education, child care, etc.
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