The Social Security system is in place to help us through difficult times. Unfortunately, there are some instances in which the system makes our lives even more difficult than they need to be. The day I received the denial letter for my claim, I wasn't sure what I was going to do. After talking with a few friends, I contacted a lawyer. That was the best decision I had ever made. Even with the professional assistance, getting the denial overturned and getting the money that I was owed took several months. I have kept a clear journal of my experience and loaded it with information that can help others get through what can be an impossible time.
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Social security denial - a journal of assistance
How Do You Deal With Child Support And A Special Needs Child?
Alexis Garcia
When parents divorce, child support is one of the most important items to think about. The court determines how to settle child support payment using many factors. The mental and physical health of the child is one major component. If you have a child with special needs, the court has to consider this as well. Here are some things you need to know about child support payments with a special needs child.
Are the Child's Needs Met?
Child support is used to meet any needs of the child, no matter what those needs are. For a child who requires specialized care, which can include medical care, medication, therapy, or anything else, the costs can add up. Both parents are responsible for ensuring the child's medical needs are provided for, not just the parent with primary custody.
Each parent may need access to a special vehicle or the child if they have mobility issues. Each parent may need to make modifications to their respective homes to accommodate the child with special needs. The parent may need to employ a home care assistant daily to help provide care for the child. None of these expenses should be incurred by only one parent.
When the judge goes over the case, they will think about all the extra added expenses required to care for the child and how much each parent should contribute to those needs. If one parent is not employed or makes less money, there may be some government programs available to help. However, parents must still contribute. The judge will also evaluate the child's insurance. If one parent has better coverage than the other, part of the settlement may include the requirement of that parent to keep the child on their policy. The judge will also determine how to deal with the expense of co-pays and deductibles within the child support order.
Can You Modify the Child Support Order?
If there comes a time when the child support needs to be altered, either of the child's parents may file for a child support modification. If something happens and the custodial parent states that the current child support payments do not adequately cover the child's needs, they can go back to court and request an increase. The same goes for when the child's expenses decrease. The paying parent can request a reduction in payments if it will not negatively impact the child.
For more information, reach out to a local child support lawyer.
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