Understanding Child Support?

Question of the Day:

I am the custodial parent of my child and am receiving child support. Am I obligated to provide my child with items needed while at his father's house? Is he obligated to provide his own carseat and diapers? I was under the impression that CS paid was to cover expenses for the times the child is not with the Non-Custodial Parent. Please help me understand this. – Lisa
 
Answer:

Lisa: In shared income states like mine, first you calculate the total cost of raising a child. Then that cost is apportioned between the parents according to their incomes and overnights with the child. The custodial parent is deemed to pay his or her share by paying for things like food, shelter and clothing. The other parent pays his or her share by paying it to the custodial parent. So the non-custodial parent may, but is not required to, pay for anything beyond the child support amount.