How to determine the amount of marital expenses before separation

It is best to agree upon marital expenses before separation. If direct communication between the parties is possible, the parties should decide (1) the amount of marital expenses, (2) the timing of payment, and (3) the payment method, including the remittee's bank account, and so on. To avoid conflict at a later date, this agreement should be written, not in the form of an oral promise. It is best to have your agreement for child support notarized by a notary public. If you have a notarized document, it will be easier for you to go through the enforcement process in case of non-payment.

For more information on having your agreement notarized, you should consult your local notary public office. Click here for the website of the Japan National Notaries Association.