| October, 2009
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Rule 9.12(5) Uncovered Medical Expenses
The only change to this rule was to raise the limits on the maximum to be paid by the custodial parent. It is still the first $250 per child but now the maximum for all children is $800. It was $500.
These expenses are in addtition to child support and health insurance or cash medical support. Both parents continue to have this obligation, regardless of health/cash med.
How do you handle the minimums in a "shared custody" situation? Assume 2 children at issue. Under the rule, the custodial parent would pay the first $500 of uncovered expenses. In a shared custody case, who wants to be the "custodial parent?"
My suggestion is that you treat the entire uncovered medical care expenses the same way you treat those that are above and beyond the limits. The rule says that the excess amounts are paid by the parents "in proportion to their respective net incomes." So look at the percentage results produced by Iowa Support Master and that is what each parent would pay of any expense.
Are you seeing results different from my suggestion? Let me know.
Health plan not available - Minimum Support
If you have a case where a health plan is not available, and I suggest that should never be the case, and the monthly support obligation is the minimum obligation amount, the court must order the parent to provide a health benefit plan when a plan becomes available for which there is no premium cost for a child to the parent. Section 252E.1A(3)(a).
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Tid-Bits
Updates
Iowa Support Master was updated on Septemer 14. Click on the "About" button in the program and look at the lower portion of the screen. The September 14 update should be listed at the top. If not, you need to update the program.
Installation
Do you have other computers you use that don't have Iowa Support Master installed on them? If so, simply download the program onto a portable USB drive. Take it to that computer and install it. Forward the registration information by Email or simply print it and enter it.
Remember, it's important to install the program on computers connected to the Internet so that you can easily update the program. It's not required but you will need to make sure you are using the most current version of the program each time you use it.
Electronic Forms
Do you have one of those old IBM Selectrics in your office? Do any of your staff ever use a typewriter? Why? Send us the form they are typing and we'll do our best to make it a fillable form for use on your computer.
Win a New ComputerAttend the ISBA Family Law Seminar being held at the West Des Moines Marriott Hotel on October 29, 30 for a chance to win. The drawing will be held on the 29th and you must be present to win. Patrick Wilson of Alft & Wilson Publishing will be there to answer your questions. Bring your laptops if you need some hands-on help. Click here for the ISBA seminar details. |