Raising a child with special needs comes with unique challenges, and parents of these children often face financial difficulties. In Georgia, child support laws recognize this reality and offer special provisions to ensure that children with special needs receive the financial support they require. This article provides an overview of child support for special needs children in Georgia and what parents should know.
What is Special Needs Child Support?
Special needs child support is a type of child support that is available for children with disabilities or other special needs. It is designed to help cover the additional costs that come with raising a child with special needs, such as medical expenses, therapy, and assistive devices. In Georgia, special needs child support is a separate category of child support, and it is calculated differently than regular child support.
How is Special Needs Child Support Calculated in Georgia?
In Georgia, special needs child support is calculated based on the child’s unique needs and the expenses associated with those needs. The court considers several factors when determining the amount of special needs child support, including:
The child’s medical needs
The child’s therapy needs
The cost of assistive devices, such as wheelchairs or hearing aids
The cost of medication
The cost of special education services
The cost of transportation to medical appointments and therapy sessions
The court may also consider the parent’s income and ability to pay when determining the amount of special needs child support.
It is important to note that special needs child support is in addition to regular child support. In other words, if a parent is ordered to pay $500 in regular child support, they may also be ordered to pay an additional amount for special needs child support based on the child’s needs.
Who is Eligible for Special Needs Child Support in Georgia?
Any child with a disability or special needs may be eligible for special needs child support in Georgia. The disability or special need must be documented and verified by a medical professional. It is up to the court to determine whether a child is eligible for special needs child support and how much support they are entitled to receive.
How to Request Special Needs Child Support in Georgia
If you are the custodial parent of a child with special needs and you believe that your child requires additional financial support, you may request special needs child support through the court system. You will need to provide documentation of your child’s disability or special needs, as well as documentation of the associated expenses.
It is important to work with an experienced family law attorney when requesting special needs child support. Your attorney can help you navigate the court system and ensure that your child’s needs are properly documented and presented to the court.
Conclusion
Raising a child with special needs is a challenging and rewarding experience. However, it can also be financially taxing. In Georgia, special needs child support is available to help parents cover the additional expenses associated with raising a child with special needs. If you are the custodial parent of a child with special needs, it is important to understand your rights and options when it comes to child support. Working with an experienced family law attorney can help ensure that your child receives the financial support they require to thrive.
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