Child support should be used to cover essential expenses that directly benefit the child’s wellbeing and development.

Child support payments are intended to help cover the basic living expenses and necessities required to raise a child. These funds should be allocated responsibly to ensure the child’s needs are met across all aspects of their life.

Common appropriate expenses include:

• Housing costs – rent/mortgage, utilities, and home maintenance
• Food and nutrition – groceries, school lunches, and healthy snacks
• Healthcare expenses – medical, dental, prescription medications, and health insurance
• Education needs – school supplies, tutoring, uniforms, and educational activities
• Clothing and personal care – seasonal wardrobes, shoes, and hygiene items
• Transportation costs – car expenses, public transit, or school transportation
• Extracurricular activities – sports, music lessons, clubs, and recreational programs
• Childcare expenses – daycare, after-school care, or babysitting services

While the receiving parent has discretion in how to allocate these funds, they should maintain records of child-related expenses and ensure the money is used responsibly for the child’s benefit.