Parents who pay child support are often concerned that the money will actually be used for the needs of the children, rather than those of their former spouse.
Child support is designed to meet needs such as food, clothing, shelter, basic medical care, etc. In addition to a basic amount of support, parents can also be expected to pay additional amounts for extraordinary medical care, private schools, sports and other activities, etc. In some states, parents can also be ordered to pay all or part of college costs.
So what if the receiving parent spends the money on himself, rather than the children?
Usually it doesn’t matter. As long as the children are not neglected, the receiving parent does not have to account for how they spend the money. Some costs, like rent or mortgage, utilities, groceries, etc. they are partially for the children and partially for the parents. It would be unreasonable to hold a parent accountable for every penny when so many of these “mixed costs” are involved.
Sometimes the paying parent decides to give the money directly to their children, especially if the children are teenagers and need money for gas and entertainment. Their reasoning is that at least they know that the children get the money.
While you can give your children whatever you want, keep in mind that paying them directly does not reduce your obligation to pay your ex-spouse. Remember, he or she is paying the rent and buying the groceries.
The best course of action is to pay your spouse the amount you owe and think that this money is used for children’s expenses and basic household expenses. Suppose that the “pampering” or luxuries your ex-spouse receives are paid for with your own money. Whether or not it is true, believing it will benefit your attitude and mental state immensely.
