Understanding Extraordinary Medical Expense: A Comprehensive Guide
Definition & Meaning
An extraordinary medical expense refers to medical costs that exceed a certain threshold or are not covered by insurance. These expenses typically arise from specific medical needs that are necessary for treatment. The exact definition can vary based on federal and state laws, as well as the policies of different organizations.
Legal Use & context
This term is often used in family law, particularly in the context of child support. Courts may require that extraordinary medical expenses be included in the basic child support obligation. This ensures that parents contribute fairly to the medical needs of their children. Users can find templates and forms related to extraordinary medical expenses through platforms like US Legal Forms, which can assist in managing these obligations effectively.
Real-world examples
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
(hypothetical example) A parent incurs $150 in orthodontic expenses for their child that are not covered by insurance. This cost qualifies as an extraordinary medical expense and should be added to the child support obligation.
(hypothetical example) A child requires physical therapy for a sports injury, costing $120, which is also not covered by insurance. This expense would be considered extraordinary and included in the support calculations.