What Does Child Support Include in Illinois?

 Posted on December 11, 2024 in Child Support

Child support is designed to provide children with the necessary financial support to meet their needs and maintain their well-being, even when their parents are no longer living together. While many may assume child support only covers basic needs like food and shelter, Illinois law recognizes that raising a child involves a wide range of expenses, such as healthcare, education, and extracurricular activities.

By understanding what child support includes, parents can effectively navigate family law issues and provide for their children. An experienced Illinois family law attorney can guide you through child support matters and help protect the well-being of your children.

What Basic Expenses Does Child Support Cover?

At its core, child support is intended to provide for a child’s essential needs. Under Illinois' Income Shares Model, child support is calculated based on both parents' incomes to determine an appropriate amount for necessities, including:

• Food: Groceries and meals to fulfill the child’s daily nutrition.

• Clothing: Appropriate attire for school, adverse weather, and special occasions.

• Shelter: Contributions to rent or mortgage payments to ensure the child has a stable home environment.

Does Child Support Cover Healthcare Costs?

Healthcare is a vital component of child support. Illinois law explicitly includes child support to cover medical expenses, such as:

• Health insurance premiums for the child

• Out-of-pocket costs for doctor visits, prescriptions, and hospital care

• Dental and vision care, including routine check-ups and necessary treatments

Under the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act (IMDMA), parents may also be required to share costs for unexpected medical needs.

Are Education Expenses Included?

Child support in Illinois covers many education-related expenses. These may include:

• School tuition

• School supplies such as books, uniforms, and technology devices

• Fees for school-related activities, such as field trips or clubs

• Tuition for college and other related expenses, like room and board

Are Extracurricular Activities Included?

Illinois courts recognize the immense value of extracurricular activities for a child’s development. These activities allow children to build skills, confidence, and social connections. As a result, child support may include expenses for:

• Sports teams, music lessons, or arts programs

• Registration fees for camps, competitions, or after-school programs

• Necessary equipment, such as musical instruments or sports gear

How Are Additional Expenses Handled?

Beyond these categories, child support can extend to cover other costs depending on the child’s needs. Examples include:

• Transportation costs, such as bus passes or gas for travel to school and extracurricular activities

• Childcare for younger children, if both parents are working

• Special needs support, including therapy or adaptive equipment

What Should You Do if Child Support Is Not Covering Necessary Expenses?

If your child support arrangement is not meeting your child’s needs, you can petition the court for a modification. Certain circumstances such as a change in income, medical emergencies, or evolving educational costs may necessitate a review of the support order.

Contact a Kane County, IL Family Law Attorney

If you have questions regarding child support expenses, a St.Charles, IL family law attorney can help. A lawyer at Goostree Law Group is here to provide quality legal assistance. Call 630-584-4800 to schedule a free consultation and learn more about our services.