Expenses Shared within Split Households
There are many things that make divorce and separation a ‘hassle’ – here we explore some additional expenses to consider for your children when you are divorced
Like many things in life, the expenses for caring for children continue to rise, which is just another challenge facing divorced and separated parents,with each household attempting to keep their own homes going. At the same time, they often try to share expenses for their children. So, plan whois responsible for what. For example, one of the parents should have both medical and dental coverage on the children. This may be court ordered or due to a mutual agreement between the parents.
Routine check-ups at both the doctor’s office and the dentist are essential for your children. The cost of this type of preventative care out of pocket is very high. If one of your children should have an emergency for either place it can be a bill you have to pay for a very long time.
It is the responsibility of both parents to pay for such care that their children need. Have a plan of action so that it won’t be a problem later on. For example, if one of you is paying for the premium on the insurance thenthe other parent should pay for the co-pays and deductibles. Discuss the care that is needed before it is done so that both parents agree to go forward with it.
Childcare is another expense that can add up when a divorce takes place. Perhaps one of the parents was the caregiver and now both are in the workforce. The parents should decide on a childcare provide together. It may be a licensed facility, a nanny, or even a family member. The cost of childcare should be second to the quality of care that your children are receiving though.
Inevitably there will be additional expenses for your children. Who is goingto pay for school clothing and supplies? Many parents who pay child support assume that they pay enough for such items with that monthly check. Yet it may be just enough to help the family with food and shelter. You don’t want your children to go without due to money being an issue.
Many children love to be involved in extracurricular activities as well. It can be sports, dance, or clubs. There will be expenses involved as well based on fees, special clothing and shoes needed, and even enrolment fees.Parents need to be willing to share such expenses so that their children cantake part in such events.
Summer is also a time when there are more expenses for children. They may want to go swimming lessons, camping, or even to a summer camp. All of these things cost money, and someone has to pay it. Some feel the parent who makes more money should cover the cost. This is up to the parents though as many want to do everything like that 50/50. Yet the problem could come in when one parent can’t afford their share.
As you can see there are plenty of additional expenses to consider for your children when you are divorced. They really haven’t changed from when you were married. Yet if you were the parent who didn’t take care of such issues you may not have realized how much they cost. Make sure you are willing to discuss these expenses with the other parent. You want to do what is in the best interest of your children.
This article was first published on The Poppet Centre
