NEW Your Finance Plan: How to Track Children’s Medical & Shared Expenses After Divorce

Health insurance deductibles. Camps. Orthodontia. Travel sports.It’s rarely the percentage split that causes problems after divorce—it’s the process.

The couples who return to court over children’s expenses usually don’t disagree about supporting their kids. They disagree about:

• What counts.
• Who pays first.
• When reimbursement is due.
• Whether documentation was provided.
• Whether something required prior approval.

Here’s how to build a clean system.

1. Define What “Shared Expenses” Actually Means

Vague language like “reasonable extracurriculars” invites conflict.

Instead, clarify:

• Do deductibles count as shared medical expenses?
• Are orthodontics included?
• Does travel sports require mutual consent?
• Are tutoring and SAT prep shared?
• What about car insurance for teens?
• And college-related expenses?

2. Create a Simple Reimbursement Rule

Every agreement should answer four questions:

• Who pays upfront?
• How...