Child support payments used for other services/expenses while child is not living with the parent.
Full Question:
Answer:
If the child no longer resides with the custodial parent, a review of the child support order may be necessary. Support monies collected are expected to be used for the child's expenses, including food, shelter, clothing and educational needs, rather than "spending money" for the child. Courts have held that it is acceptable for child support payments to be used to indirectly benefit the custodial parent. For example, child support monies may be used to heat the child's residence, even if others also benefit. Child support orders may earmark funds for specific items for the child, such as school fees, day care or medical expenses. Orders may also require each parent to assume a percentage of expenses for various needs.