Combination of Support Types

Integration of support models involves coordinating various support obligations to ensure consistency and effectiveness.

Here are examples of the integration of different support models:

• A $2,500 monthly spousal support payment is reduced to $1,000 monthly, if the payor also agrees to pay the recipient’s $1,500 mortgage.
• If Spouse A needs $4,000 monthly to meet budget, without children, the spousal support could be $4,000 assuming Spouse B can afford it.
• If Spouse B needs $4,000 monthly to meet budget, with children, the spousal support could be reduced to $2,500 if child support is $1,500, assuming Spouse B can afford it.
• If both spouses are self-supporting, then the only support option to consider are child support and direct payment of children’s expenses.
• If Spouse B needs $2,000 monthly to meet budget but agrees to fund a children’s joint checking account with $500 a month, her need for child support and/or spousal support increases to $2,500.

Integration of support models allows for customization and flexibility, enabling parties to negotiate terms that reflect their specific financial situation, earning capacity, and parenting arrangements.  

Parties may have the flexibility to modify support arrangements over time, such as adjusting child support payments based on changes in income/expenses or renegotiating spousal support terms if circumstances warrant a modification.

Some jurisdictions allow for a combined payment called “family support” or simply “support.”  

Clear and transparent language is essential in divorce agreements to avoid misunderstandings or disputes regarding support obligations.