Must I use my support money to pay the mortgage, medical, or child care expenses?

Expenses, such as mortgage payments, are already factored into the formula. The law assumes that the spouse occupying the marital residence will pay the mortgage, taxes, and insurance. Unreimbursed medical expenses of the obligee or the children shall be allocated between the parties in proportion to their respective net income. The Court may direct the obligor to pay his or her share either to the obligee or directly to the health care provider. 

A special rule applies if your Order is dated on or after April 1, 1999. In those case, only annual medical expenses in excess of $250 per person, will be allocated in proportion to the parties net incomes. An annual limitation may be imposed when the burden on the obligor would otherwise be excessive. Medical expenses include insurance co-payments and deductibles and all expenses incurred for reasonably necessary medical services and supplies, including but not limited to surgical, dental and optical services, and orthodontia. Medical expenses do not include cosmetic, chiropractic, psychiatric or psychological services, unless specifically directed  in the Order of Court. Refer to the Medical Support Enforcement Guide for further information.

Reasonable child care expenses paid by the custodial parent, if necessary to maintain employment or appropriate education in pursuit of income, are the responsibility of both parents. These expenses shall be allocated between the parties in proportion to their net incomes and obligor's share added to his or her basic obligation.

Show All Answers

1. On what income is child support based?
2. What do you consider income when calculating a child support obligation?
3. What happens to my case for support after the complaint is filed?
4. Do I have to agree with the Conference Officer with regard to the amount of support recommended?
5. How are the guidelines applied in order to determine what amount of support would be reasonable?
6. Can a support order be stopped or reduced if the defendant quits or assumes a lower paying job?
7. Will the Support Order always equal the amount determined by the formula?
8. Will someone have to provide medical insurance?
9. Must I use my support money to pay the mortgage, medical, or child care expenses?
10. Will the Court order the parents to pay for private school tuition, summer camp or other needs not addressed by the guidelines?
11. Will the Court order the parents to pay college tuition?