ARTICLE · 04 DECEMBER 2024

Section 7 Expenses Vs Child Support – What's The Difference?

Sorbara Law

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A common misconception among family law clients is that any and all special expenses incurred by a child are included within the basic child support payment.

CanadaFamily and Matrimonial

A common misconception among family law clients is that any and all special expenses incurred by a child are included within the basic child support payment. However, section 7 expenses and child support in fact serve different purposes in family law. This article aims to clarify the differences between these support obligations, will explain how child support is calculated, and will provide common examples of section 7 expenses recognized in the Guidelines.

Parents have a legal obligation to provide financial support for their dependent children. Child support is the right of the child and cannot be waived by either parent. In Ontario, child support is determined by the Child Support Gudelines and refers to the regular payments made by one parent to the other to cover the basic needs of the child, such as food, clothing, and shelter. Typically, child support is calculated based on the payor's gross annual income (usually reported on line 150 of the payor's income

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