What are Section 7 expenses in Canada?
Section 7 expenses (also called extraordinary or special expenses) are child-related costs that are shared between parents in addition to table child support. They include childcare while a parent works or studies, medical/dental expenses not covered by insurance, extracurricular activities, post-secondary education costs, and private school or tutoring when necessary.
How are Section 7 expenses divided between parents?
Under the Federal Child Support Guidelines, Section 7 expenses are divided proportionate to each parent's income — not 50/50. If Parent A earns $70,000 and Parent B earns $30,000 (total $100,000), Parent A pays 70% and Parent B pays 30% of each shared expense.
Do both parents have to agree to a Section 7 expense?
Generally yes, significant expenses should be agreed to in advance, or one parent may not be required to contribute. Courts consider whether the expense is reasonable given the child's needs and the family's pre-separation lifestyle. Urgent medical expenses are an exception — they can be incurred and then shared.