Child support in Florida is paid by a parent to help with the upkeep of a child. A non-custodial parent usually pays the custodial parent to help care for their children. Financial support covers the living expenses agreed upon by both parents in a family court. The importance of child support to your child cannot be underestimated. Failing to make timely payments can result in penalties from the family court.
Child support is not alimony
A common mistake is confusing alimony and child support. Alimony is paid to a former spouse to help with their living expenses. Child support is used to secure the financial future of the children. Financial support paid to cover the living expenses of children is agreed in a family law court. The financial support provided by one parent should be used for the reasons agreed in court documents.
Defining the parents
Child support agreements include each parent being known as custodial or non-custodial. The definition is important to who receives payments on behalf of a child. A non-custodial parent usually pays financial support to the custodial parent. This is not always the case, with some agreements allowing the custodial parent to provide support for the non-custodial.
Prevent issues
The reasons for child support include promoting financial stability in both homes. Financial issues in the home can harm the physical and mental health of children. Maintaining a strong financial position for both parents provides a safe environment for children to grow up in. The best interests of a child should be at the forefront of every decision made about financial support.
Considering the best interests of a child is the key to creating a fair child support agreement.