Child support must be for manicures, pedicures, trips to the spa, vacations to Jamaica, right? At least, that’s what my ex-husband must think. Because if really believed that his child support payment is used toward the care and feeding of his son, he would gladly pay it when he’s supposed to, right? He would realize that the payment is his share of food, clothing, shelter, and medical costs that any child has a right to have.
I actually have a piece of paper from the Court, and it’s signed by a judge! It’s pretty official. I’m pretty sure that my ex-husband was ordered by the Court to pay a certain amount in Child Support every month. If I were ordered by the Court to do something, I think I would do it. That’s called a “legal obligation.”
But, let’s forget about the legal obligation. There is also a “moral obligation.” This man has a child – he should want to do what is best for this child, right? That’s what I think. That’s what makes sense to me. It’s what I want, and I’m the boy’s mother. Wouldn’t his father want the same thing?
Hmmmmm….apparently not!
So, what is a single mom to do, when it comes to Child Support?
Don’t count on it.
As a single mom, it is sooooooo important that I learn how to pay my bills based on MY INCOME. I used to count Child Support as part of my income, but I quickly learned that I shouldn’t do that. We’re in June, now, and I haven’t seen a dime since January.
Yes, I know there are avenues that I can take. Garnishing, liens, etc. He’s self-employed, and doesn’t own anything. So, I wait. I pay my bills from my income, and if Child Support payments should happen to come in, they’re gravy. They go into my savings account.
I think it’s wise for most single moms to do the same. I’ve learned that you just can’t count on Child Support.
