In Minnesota, child support usually covers basic needs like food, housing, and clothing. Private school tuition does not get automatically included in child support. However, the court can sometimes consider it as an exception during divorce or custody cases if there is a strong reason and court approval.
Private school tuition in child support
The court will look at whether private school is necessary or agreed upon by both parents. If the child attended private school during the marriage, or both parents agreed to continue it, the court is more likely to consider the tuition cost.
What the court considers
Several factors help the court decide if private school tuition should be a factor in child support:
- The child’s best interests: The court always aims to serve the best interests of the child. If attending a private school benefits the child’s education or well-being, it may influence the court’s decision.
- Parents’ financial situations: Both parents’ incomes and ability to afford private school will factor in. If one or both parents can comfortably afford tuition, the court may be more inclined to include it.
- Precedents: If the child was already enrolled in a private school before the divorce, the court may decide to continue.
Flexibility in child support agreements
Parents also have the option to agree on covering private school tuition outside of the court’s standard child support guidelines. If both parties agree, they can submit their arrangement to the court for approval.
Understanding Minnesota’s approach to child support can help parents navigate decisions about their child’s education and financial needs.
