When you and your partner have a child, it is the responsibility of both parties to financially provide for the child, even if the couple is no longer in a relationship. As such, when two parents file for divorce or break up, the court will examine each party’s circumstances to determine how much support is necessary. While you may anticipate receiving or paying for food, shelter, clothing, and other basic needs, it’s important to understand the full extent of what costs are included in these payments. The following blog explores what you should know about these matters, including why it’s in your best interest to connect with Morris County child support lawyers to help ensure the amount you are paying or receiving is fair.
What Does Child Support Include in New Jersey?
The primary function of child support is to ensure that the child has the financial resources they would have if they were living with both parents, thereby setting them up for success and ensuring their well-being. As such, child support payments cover an extensive variety of expenses, beyond the basic necessities like food, shelter, and clothing. Generally, this also includes the cost of out-of-pocket medical expenses, prescription, or specialist care, which will be covered. It’s important to understand that transportation costs are also included in child support, which can range from the cost of public transportation to vehicle maintenance.
Additionally, child support covers the cost of educational needs, like school supplies, tutoring, or field trips. Similarly, extracurricular activities, like sports, school clubs, music lessons, and summer camps, will be taken into consideration. You should note, however, that some sports equipment or instruments can be considered an “add-on,” requiring additional consideration on how to cover these costs.
How Is Support Calculated?
To ensure payments are fair for both the paying and receiving parent, the court adheres to a set formula to determine how much child support payments are. As such, the court will take the following factors into account when determining the amount of each payment:
- The income of both parents, including bonuses, commission, and even income generated from rental properties
- Custody and parenting time
- Whether or not each parent has other children or dependents
- The cost of child care if both parents work
- Which parent has included the child on their health insurance
- Any additional factors the court deems relevant
It’s also important to understand that, generally, in New Jersey, child support obligations end on the child’s 19th birthday. However, depending on the circumstances, the courts can issue an order continuing the obligation of the paying parent, such as if the child has physical or mental disabilities that require continued financial support or enrolls in college. If the custodial parents wish to continue receiving payments after the child’s 19th birthday, they must petition the court.
As you can see, child support is an important though often contentious issue for many families. That is why it’s critical to connect with an experienced attorney regardless of whether you are the paying or receiving parent. At Leslie Law Firm, LLC, our team understands how complex these matters can be, which is why we will fight to help you navigate these challenging times. Contact us today to learn more.
