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How Does Coronavirus Affect Child Support?
We are in the middle of an unprecedented health crisis right now with states and governments ordering “shelter in place”, complete lockdowns, and social distancing. Courts are closed or operating on a very limited basis. Schools are closed and parents are scrambling to learn how to provide homeschooling options, provide enough food and snacks for their children while figuring out how to maintain normalcy and sanity daily. On top of this, many parents are also looking for other income-generating avenues because they have lost their jobs or their paychecks have been reduced or suspended.
During this difficult economic time, what should you do about court-ordered child support payments? What if you lost your job or have reduced income now? What if your child-related expenses have increased significantly because the children are now at home at all hours and are hungry every 15 minutes? What if you have had to pay for more childcare costs because there is no school? What if you are a healthcare worker and must work extra hours but your ex-partner now refuses to pay child support because they have the children for more hours?
What should you do about child support during the time of the coronavirus pandemic?
First, step back and see the bigger picture. Though it may be hard to see it some days, just remember, we will not be in this situation forever.
Always look for the solution that is in the best interests of your child. Work with your child’s other parent (your ex) in coming up with a temporary fix to this temporary problem. Continue to comply with the court orders to the best you can but also be flexible and generous when the circumstances require it. For example, if you have extra food at your home and you know that the other parent is struggling to make ends meet, send some food along at your next child exchange.
Just remember, this too shall pass. We are all in this together.
ZafiroLaw Can Help
If you need help coming up with a solution to your child support issues during this coronavirus pandemic, contact ZafiroLaw to schedule a phone or video consultation so we can come up with a plan.
