Child support arrangements can be beneficial to both parents and especially the child. The money allows the custodial parent more resources to raise the child and provide them with the things they need. A common concern that parents have is whether or not child support is enough to cover specific medical expenses, like braces and other orthodontic treatments. If you have questions or concerns regarding your child support plan, reach out to an experienced Suffolk County child support lawyer today.
What is Child Support?
Child support is a financial contribution that a noncustodial parent makes to a custodial parent to help cover the costs associated with raising a child. The purpose of it is to ensure that the child’s basic needs are met. This can include food, housing, clothing, education, and healthcare. Child support payments are based on a percentage of the paying parent’s salary which is calculated after determining the amount of expenses the child has monthly.
What Does Child Support Cover?
Child support payments can cover a variety of items and necessities. Some of the general things covered by child support include:
- Food
- Clothing
- Rent/mortgage
- Utilities
- School tuition
- Tutors
- Childcare
- Transportation
- Travel
- Extracurricular activities
The amount of child support that a parent is obligated to pay is determined by a court. If the parents wish, they can decide on a different amount as long as they both agree in writing. A court must approve the agreement to ensure that the child’s needs are being met but if they believe it is fair they can choose to abide by this agreement instead of the court’s determination.
Does Child Support Cover Braces?
Braces fall under the category of specialized dental or orthodontic services. They are used to fix the alignment of the child’s teeth or jaw and can be costly.
Child support payments don’t explicitly cover the cost of braces or specialized treatments. However, they may be covered under certain circumstances. If the noncustodial parent’s health insurance covers the cost of braces then it may be a nonissue. If it is not covered then the parents will have to pay for the treatment on their own.
In New York, the basic child support obligation does not include medical expenses that are not covered by insurance. Most child support orders stipulate that in addition to the amount of money owed in child support, both parents must share the cost of out-of-pocket medical expenses 50/50. This can apply to braces if they are for cosmetic purposes. However, if they are deemed a medical necessity then they may be covered by insurance.
If your child needs braces, the cost may or may not be covered by child support. If they are covered by the noncustodial parent’s insurance then child support payments may apply. Otherwise, the cost will generally have to be split between the parents. Reach out to a skilled attorney for more information.
