Co-parenting expense reimbursement is a critical area that often needs attention. In this post, we share essential tips on how to request repayment for child-related expenses effectively.
Navigating “Co-parenting expense reimbursement” can be tricky. This post offers practical advice on this issue. Typically, Marital Settlement Agreements or Final Judgments contain provisions about reimbursement for shared child expenses. Medical costs, school uniforms, or extra-curricular activities are common examples. One parent usually pays initially and then asks the other parent for their share.
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.
Typically, parents split costs for extra-curricular activities and school uniforms. Frequently, one parent pays upfront. That parent then requests reimbursement from the other. Agreements or Court Orders generally stipulate the reimbursement timeframe.
Issues occur when a parent delays or forgets to send a reimbursement invoice. One solution I provide my clients with is a standard email template. It simplifies the process and also creates a record in case court enforcement becomes necessary.
Example for requesting expense reimbursement
Consider the following templates. If you’ve paid an expense, use this:
“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”
Alternatively, if the other parent pays the service provider directly, use this template:
“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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