How to split child expenses with a co-parent

Which kids' expenses to share

Day-to-day costs in each home, like groceries and outings, are usually covered by whoever has the kids that week. What co-parents split are the bigger costs:

• School tuition, supplies and uniforms.
• Doctor, dentist and prescriptions.
• Lessons, sports and activities.

If an agreement or a court set child support, that's separate: this is what you split on top of it.

50/50 or by income

If you earn about the same, 50/50 is simplest. If one parent earns more, split by income: at $3,000 and $2,000 a month, that's 60% and 40%. Write it down and revisit it when incomes change. More in how to split bills proportionally.

An example month at 60/40

Emma and Jake agreed on 60% and 40%. In October, Emma paid tuition ($400) and a doctor visit ($60); Jake paid for the uniform ($90) and soccer ($50). Total: $600.

Jake sends Emma $100 and the month is settled.

Do it in Divall

With Family and roommates, you track the kids' month without the table:

1. Create a Family account and add your co-parent by name, even without the app, or invite them with a link.
2. Choose the “By percentages” agreement or equal parts.
3. Log each expense with who paid; receipts can be read with AI from a photo.
4. When you close the month, Divall shows who pays whom; the payment is marked as paid and confirmed by whoever receives it. Divall keeps the record; each of you moves the money.

Family and roommates is part of Divall Pro ($4.99 a month, with a 7-day free trial) and keeps up to 5 years of history. Divall is free to start: with a Family account, the kids' month is clear for both of you.

Frequently asked questions