In this blog post, we discuss a tip I give to my clients regarding co-parenting and requesting reimbursement for expenses incurred on behalf of the minor child(ren).
Marital Settlement Agreements and/or Final Judgments (Court Order) typically include a provision for requesting the other parent for reimbursement of an expense they agreed to split. An example would be out-of-pocket expenses for uncovered medical expenses. Extra-curricular activities and school uniforms are also typically split between the parents. Often times, one parent pays upfront and is required to request repayment from the other parent. Agreements and/or Court Orders usually include a timeframe for when these expenses should be reimbursed.
Problems usually arise when one parent fails or waits too long to send an invoice and request for repayment from the other parent. A solution I offer my clients is to work out a standard template email, where you simply have to fill in the blanks. This will help break whatever barrier you may have for making this request. At the same time, this will help you create a paper trail should you have to go to court to seek enforcement of the Parenting Plan Agreement and/or Court Order.
Here’s an example of what your template can look like if you covered the costs:
“Hi —-: Attached, please find a copy of the latest invoice for (ex: the girls’ dance tuition). Your portion is $— (optional: you can list out the amount/percentage that she/he’s required to pay, example: 60% of the total amount.). Please reimburse me via (CashApp/Venmo/etc.). Thank you”
Here’s an example of what your template can look like if the other parent is required to make direct payment to the service provider: “Hi —: Attached, please find a copy of the latest invoice for (ex: the girls’ dance tuition). Your portion is $— (optional: you can list out the amount/percentage that he’s required to pay, example: 60% of the total amount.). Please send your portion directly to their office. I already paid my portion in the amount of $— (Example to add: 40% of the total amount). Thank you”
If the other parent doesn’t respond within a few days and/or fails to submit payment within the timeframe specified in the agreement, send a follow-up email/text asking if they received the original email/text; and let them know that if you do not receive payment by the next day or two, you will have no choice but to seek court intervention.
Conclusion
The legal process can get difficult, which is why we always recommend that you seek the assistance of counsel; or at least have a consultation. Schedule a consultation with one of our attorneys today to review the issues of your case, the legal options you may have, and certain rights that pertain to your unique situation.
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