With the holiday season in full swing in California and across the nation, you may wonder if and to what extent you can spend the child support money you receive from your child’s other parent on gifts and other nonessentials. As Findlaw explains, while it is true that you should spend this money first and foremost on your child’s necessities such as food, clothing and shelter, once you have met those needs, you can spend it basically however you see fit, as long as your child benefits from those expenditures.
What all can I spend my child support money on?
What is a QDRO and do you need one?
California is a community property state, meaning that, during your divorce, the judge will split all assets and income equally between you and your spouse, regardless of who purchased an asset or earned the income. Like personal property, real estate, income and other assets, the judge who presides over your case will split all retirement accounts fairly between you and your spouse. Splitting retirement accounts can be a complex and drawn-out process, as each different type of retirement account has unique tax requirements. A qualified domestic relations order can help simplify the process and ensure that the judge distributes the funds in yours and your spouse's retirement accounts correctly.
Can mediation help me after my divorce is over?
Like many Californians going through a divorce, you might have gone the litigation route, having a judge make the final say regarding property division, child custody and other matters. Or, you and your spouse may have opted for an amicable divorce instead through mediation, collaborative law or another uncontested method. Regardless of your past experiences with your divorce, you might wonder what you can do if conflicts with your ex continue after your divorce was finalized.
