Illinois law dictates that the right to make certain significant parenting decisions, including decisions over which extracurricular activities children may participate in, is to be allocated to one or both parents. With these activities comes the question of who will pay for them. As children grow, their interests and activities expand and suddenly many parents are wondering who is going to have to pay for music lessons, sports teams, dance lessons, art classes, and more.
In Illinois, expenses for extra-curricular activities are not part of child support. The state now looks at a few factors when determining child support; these include the gross incomes of both parents as well as how much time they spend with their children.
However, when it comes to extracurricular activities and school expenses, the courts may order either or both parents to contribute. This means that parents may be required to pay for these activities on top of what they are required for child support.
The courts define extracurricular activities as those that “are intended to enhance the educational, athletic, social, or cultural development of the child.”
Child support no longer includes costs to cover medical bills, daycare, school fees, and extracurricular activities. Instead, child support is meant to cover basic living expenses such as food, clothing, and a safe home.
In Illinois, the child support covers the day-to-day basic costs of raising children, and depending on a divorcing couple’s financial status, the courts may also order the parents to pay what are considered above-and-beyond costs. These include extracurricular activities.
As for which parent is supposed to pay for the extracurriculars, that will be up to the courts based on the income level of each parent and how much time the parents spend with their children. If possible, it is helpful for parents to come together and agree on the important decision of who is responsible for which financial aspects of their children’s lives.
If you have questions regarding who is required to pay for extra-curricular activities, be sure to consult your divorce attorney.
