What is the difference between child support and child maintenance?

Child support and child maintenance are both payments paid to provide for the financial needs of a minor child. However, there are distinct differences between the two. Child support is a court-ordered payment that is required from one parent, usually the non-custodial parent, to the other parent, usually the custodial parent. The purpose of child support is to provide financial support to the custodial parent for the needs of the child. The amount of the payment is determined based on a number of factors, including the income of both parents and the number of children in the household. These payments are usually made on a monthly basis and remain in effect until the child reaches the age of majority. In contrast, child maintenance is an agreement between two parents that is not necessarily court-ordered, though it is often used in addition to court-ordered child support. The purpose of this payment is to provide additional financial support to the minor child for special needs or other expenses that may not be covered by child support. For example, child maintenance may be used to pay for medical or educational expenses for the child. The amount and duration of these payments are generally negotiable between the two parents and do not necessarily end when the child reaches the age of majority. In Florida, both child support and child maintenance are legally enforceable. It is important to understand the differences between the two so that you can make sure your child is provided with the financial support they require.

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What is the difference between child support and child maintenance?

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