Financial affidavit tips: Expenses for children
In past posts, we’ve detailed the importance of submitting a comprehensive and accurate financial affidavit to ensure that your Miami divorce attorney, opposing counsel and the judge ruling on the dissolution of your marriage can make informed judgments regarding financial aid and property distribution. If you and your spouse have any children together, this document will also be referred to when determining child support. As such, this form requires you to provide details about the expenses directly related to the care of your children.
Costs that fall under this category include the following:
- Daycare, babysitting or nursery
- Clothes
- Extracurricular activities (summer camps, sports clubs, etc.)
- General grooming
- Lunch money
- Medical expenses
- School supplies
- Tuition.
The short- and long-form versions of the financial affidavit treat certain aspects of this section differently. The former – also known as Form 12.902(b) – states that only non-insured medical costs should be covered here, whereas the latter – Form 12.902.(c) – specifies that health insurance rates are to be listed in this category.
In addition, though the short form of Florida’s financial affidavit does not distinguish between the costs for children and minors from a previous union, the long-form version does so. If this applies to you, consult your Miami divorce lawyer about how to properly report these expenses.
If you have questions about your financial affidavit – especially with regard to the ongoing care and support of your children – it’s essential to consult a legal professional with experience in this field. Scott. A Ferris, Esq. is a dedicated Miami divorce attorney who can address any concerns you may have and will keep you informed throughout this complex and emotionally fraught process.