Think about how hard it would be to monitor the spending habits of millions of single parents in America. As you might imagine, it would be virtually impossible. Instead, states must assume that custodial parents are using child support funds correctly for the care and upbringing of their children.
Some noncustodial parents in the Peabody, Massachusetts, region worry about their co-parent misusing support funds. In turn, custodial parents feel obligated to defend themselves. If you spend the child support you receive to meet the needs of your kids, you do not have to defend your actions.
What should you avoid doing with child support?
As we have said many times, the purpose of child support is to provide the basics that every human needs to survive. Food, clothing and shelter. While custodial parents can choose how to use child support, it does not mean they can do whatever they want with the money their co-parent provides.
To remain transparent and aboveboard about your child support expenditures, avoid using it in the following ways:
- To buy gifts for a romantic partner
- To loan cash to family or friends
- To fund personal investment or retirement accounts
- To purchase luxury items
- To take vacations without your kids
It is much easier than you may think to use your child’s support payments correctly. Most parents typically do not have enough left from these funds to use them illegally after meeting the needs of the child. However, if you require additional information, a legal professional can help.
To noncustodial parents concerned about the misuse of funds, consider learning more about Massachusetts child support rules and regulations. This can help you identify misuse and find a remedy or modify your support order.