In Saskatchewan, both parents share the cost of extracurricular activities proportionally based on their respective incomes under Section 7 of the Federal Child Support Guidelines. If one parent earns $60,000 and the other earns $40,000 annually, they contribute 60% and 40% respectively toward qualifying activities such as hockey, swimming lessons, dance, and music programs. These extraordinary expenses are payable in addition to the base child support table amount, but only when the expense meets specific legal tests for necessity, reasonableness, and the child's best interests.
Key Facts: Extracurricular Activities Child Support Saskatchewan
| Requirement | Saskatchewan Standard |
|---|---|
| Legal Authority | Federal Child Support Guidelines, Section 7 |
| Sharing Method | Proportional to each parent's gross income |
| Filing Fee (Family Application) | $200 uncontested / $300 contested |
| Residency Requirement | 1 year habitual residence in Saskatchewan |
| Separation Period | 1 year living separate and apart |
| Cost Calculation | Net costing (after tax credits and subsidies) |
| Provincial Benefit | Active Families Benefit: up to $150/child (income under $60,000) |
What Are Section 7 Expenses for Extracurricular Activities?
Section 7 expenses are special or extraordinary costs that parents must share beyond the basic child support table amount calculated under the Federal Child Support Guidelines. Under Section 7(1)(f), extracurricular activities qualify as extraordinary expenses when they exceed what the receiving parent can reasonably cover given their income and the child support they receive. Saskatchewan courts apply federal guidelines because The Family Maintenance Act, 1997 adopts these standards for provincial family law matters.
The Federal Child Support Guidelines define special or extraordinary expenses as those that are necessary because they are in the child's best interests and reasonable given the means of the parents and the child, as well as consistent with the family's spending patterns before separation. For extracurricular activities specifically, the expense must clear a higher bar than other Section 7 categories like childcare or medical insurance premiums.
Common extracurricular activities that may qualify as Section 7 expenses in Saskatchewan include competitive hockey registration and tournament fees ranging from $3,000 to $8,000 annually, competitive swimming programs costing $2,000 to $5,000 per year, elite dance training at $2,500 to $6,000 annually, music lessons and instrument rental at $1,500 to $4,000 per year, and travel sports team costs including equipment, uniforms, and competition travel expenses.
The Three-Part Legal Test for Extraordinary Expenses
Saskatchewan courts apply a three-part test to determine whether extracurricular activity costs qualify as shareable Section 7 expenses. Every parent seeking contribution must prove all three elements: necessity in the child's best interests, reasonableness given parental means, and consistency with pre-separation family spending patterns. Failing any single element defeats the claim for shared expenses.
Necessity: Is the Activity in the Child's Best Interests?
The necessity test asks whether the extracurricular activity serves the child's physical, emotional, and developmental wellbeing rather than merely providing recreation. Saskatchewan courts consider factors including the child's demonstrated aptitude or passion for the activity, how long the child has participated in the activity (especially if participation began before separation), whether the child has expressed a wish to continue, and professional recommendations supporting the activity for the child's development.
In the leading case of Liberty v. Liberty (2014 ONSC 957), the court found competitive swimming expenses were necessary because the 15-year-old child had participated in competitive swimming prior to separation and expressed a wish to continue. Courts give significant weight to activities that represent a continuation of the child's established interests rather than new enrollment after separation.
Reasonableness: Can the Parents Afford This Expense?
The reasonableness test examines whether the expense is appropriate given both parents' financial circumstances. A $5,000 annual hockey fee might qualify as extraordinary for a family with combined income of $80,000, but the same expense may not qualify for a family earning $300,000 combined, especially if the child played competitive hockey before separation. Courts examine the total financial picture including each parent's gross income and net income after taxes, existing child support obligations, each parent's housing costs and essential expenses, and other children's needs and activities.
Consistency: Did the Family Spend This Way Before Separation?
The consistency test prevents parents from unilaterally enrolling children in expensive new activities after separation and demanding the other parent contribute. If the family never prioritized competitive sports or elite arts training before separation, courts may decline to order sharing of such expenses afterward. However, children's interests and abilities naturally evolve, so courts balance historical spending patterns against reasonable opportunities for child development.
How Saskatchewan Courts Calculate Proportional Sharing
Once an expense qualifies as an extraordinary expense under Section 7, Saskatchewan courts divide the cost proportionally based on each parent's gross annual income. The calculation follows a straightforward formula: each parent's percentage contribution equals their income divided by the combined parental income, multiplied by 100.
For example, if Parent A earns $80,000 annually and Parent B earns $45,500 annually, their combined income totals $125,500. Parent A contributes 63.7% ($80,000 ÷ $125,500) and Parent B contributes 36.3% ($45,500 ÷ $125,500). For a $4,040 annual competitive swimming cost, Parent A would pay $2,573.48 and Parent B would pay $1,466.52.
Net Costing Requirement
Saskatchewan applies net costing to Section 7 expenses, meaning courts subtract any tax benefits, subsidies, or credits before calculating each parent's share. Under Section 7(3) of the Federal Child Support Guidelines, courts must consider any subsidies, benefits, income tax deductions, or credits relating to the expense. If one parent claims the child fitness tax credit or receives government subsidies for the activity, that amount reduces the total expense before proportional sharing.
Saskatchewan offers the Active Families Benefit, an annual refundable tax benefit providing up to $150 per child (or $200 for children with disabilities) for families with gross income up to $60,000. This benefit must factor into net costing calculations for eligible families.
Types of Extracurricular Activities Covered
Saskatchewan courts have addressed various categories of extracurricular activities under Section 7. The following breakdown shows typical treatment based on case law across Canadian jurisdictions applying the Federal Child Support Guidelines.
Competitive Sports (Most Commonly Litigated)
Competitive sports represent the largest category of Section 7 expense disputes in Saskatchewan family courts. Hockey, figure skating, competitive swimming, gymnastics, and travel soccer generate the highest costs and most frequent disagreements. In one notable case, a Saskatchewan court limited a father's annual contribution to $3,000 for hockey expenses despite higher claimed costs, considering his income of $94,957 and net worth of approximately $120,000.
Typical competitive hockey costs in Saskatchewan range from $3,000 to $8,000 annually for registration, ice time, equipment, tournament fees, and travel. Competitive swimming programs cost $2,000 to $5,000 annually including pool fees, coaching, competition entry fees, and travel expenses. Elite gymnastics training ranges from $4,000 to $10,000 annually depending on the competitive level.
Music and Arts Programs
Private music lessons, instrument purchase or rental, recital fees, and intensive arts programs can qualify as extraordinary expenses when the child demonstrates serious commitment and talent. Annual costs typically range from $1,500 to $4,000 for private lessons plus $500 to $3,000 for quality instrument rental or purchase. Intensive dance training at competition levels often exceeds $2,500 to $6,000 annually including costumes, competition fees, and studio time.
Educational Enrichment
Tutoring, specialized academic programs, and educational enrichment activities may qualify under Section 7(1)(d) as extraordinary expenses for primary or secondary education meeting the child's particular needs. Language immersion programs, STEM camps, and specialized tutoring for learning differences commonly generate Section 7 claims. Costs range from $1,000 to $5,000 annually depending on intensity and duration.
Consent and Consultation Requirements
Saskatchewan courts strongly encourage parents to consult one another before enrolling children in activities they expect the other parent to help fund. Unilateral enrollment without prior discussion can defeat a Section 7 claim or reduce the non-enrolling parent's share. The case of Hawkins v. Hawkins (2019 ONSC 7149) established that whether the non-enrolling parent was consulted before expenses were incurred is a relevant factor in determining entitlement.
Parents with joint decision-making responsibility under their parenting order must reach agreement on significant extracurricular decisions. If you cannot agree, either parent may apply to the Court of King's Bench for a determination. The court filing fee for a family law application in Saskatchewan is $200 for uncontested matters or $300 for contested applications, as of January 2026.
Best Practices for Avoiding Disputes
Parents can minimize Section 7 disputes through proactive communication and documentation. Recommended practices include discussing activity plans before registration opens, sharing cost estimates and registration deadlines in writing, requesting written consent or objection within a reasonable timeframe (typically 7-14 days), documenting the child's interest level and any prior participation, and retaining receipts and proof of payment for all activity expenses.
Creating a shared digital folder or using co-parenting communication apps allows both parents to access activity information, receipts, and schedules. Saskatchewan's Family Law Information Centre recommends written communication for all significant co-parenting decisions.
How to Calculate Your Share: Step-by-Step
Following these steps ensures accurate calculation of Section 7 expense sharing for extracurricular activities in Saskatchewan.
Step 1: Determine Combined Gross Income
Gather both parents' gross annual income from line 15000 of their most recent tax returns or Notice of Assessment. Add both incomes together. For example, Parent A earns $75,000 and Parent B earns $50,000, totaling $125,000 combined.
Step 2: Calculate Each Parent's Percentage
Divide each parent's income by the combined total. Parent A: $75,000 ÷ $125,000 = 60%. Parent B: $50,000 ÷ $125,000 = 40%.
Step 3: Identify Gross Activity Costs
Compile all costs associated with the activity including registration fees, equipment purchases or rental, uniform costs, competition entry fees, travel expenses, and coaching or instruction fees. Assume total hockey costs of $5,500 annually.
Step 4: Apply Net Costing
Subtract any applicable tax credits, subsidies, or benefits. If Parent A claims the Saskatchewan Active Families Benefit ($150) and receives other subsidies totaling $200, the net cost becomes $5,500 - $350 = $5,150.
Step 5: Calculate Each Parent's Dollar Amount
Multiply the net cost by each parent's percentage. Parent A: $5,150 × 60% = $3,090. Parent B: $5,150 × 40% = $2,060.
What Happens When Parents Disagree
When parents cannot reach agreement on whether an extracurricular expense qualifies as shareable or what amount is reasonable, either parent may apply to the Saskatchewan Court of King's Bench for a determination. The court will examine whether the expense meets the three-part test for extraordinary expenses and, if so, order proportional sharing based on incomes.
Court Process Overview
The applicant parent must file an application at the Court of King's Bench and pay the $200-$300 filing fee. An additional $95 is required for the Application for Judgment. The application should include evidence of the activity costs, proof of the child's participation history, documentation of attempts to obtain the other parent's consent, and income information for both parents.
Saskatchewan courts prioritize settlement through case conferences before proceeding to contested hearings. Many Section 7 disputes resolve through mediation or negotiation once both parents understand the legal framework and likely court outcomes.
Retroactive Claims
Parents may seek retroactive contribution for Section 7 expenses the other parent refused to share. However, the Child Support Service operated by the Government of Saskatchewan does not calculate or recalculate retroactive payments, arrears, or extraordinary expenses. Retroactive claims require court application and involve additional complexity around notice, delay, and changed circumstances.
Provincial Resources and Benefits
Saskatchewan provides several resources to help families manage extracurricular activity costs and child support disputes.
Active Families Benefit
The Active Families Benefit is an annual refundable tax benefit assisting Saskatchewan families with costs for children's participation in sports, cultural, and recreational activities. Families with annual gross income up to $60,000 can receive up to $150 per child, or $200 per child if the child has a disability. This benefit should be factored into Section 7 net costing calculations.
Child Support Service
The Saskatchewan Child Support Service offers free administrative calculation and recalculation of basic child support amounts. However, the service does not handle Section 7 extraordinary expenses, which require court order or parental agreement. Contact the service at 1-888-218-2822 or visit saskatchewan.ca/child-support.
Family Law Information Centre
The Family Law Information Centre provides free information about family law processes in Saskatchewan. Contact familylaw@gov.sk.ca or call 306-787-5837 (toll-free 1-888-218-2822) for guidance on filing procedures and court requirements.
Legal Aid Saskatchewan
Low-income parents may qualify for legal representation through Legal Aid Saskatchewan. Eligibility requires liquid assets below $1,500 for single applicants or $3,500 for applicants with dependents. Legal Aid can assist with Section 7 expense disputes as part of broader child support matters.
Comparison: Section 7 Expense Categories
| Expense Type | Extraordinary Test | Typical Annual Cost | Sharing Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Childcare (employment-related) | Automatically qualifies | $8,000 - $15,000 | Proportional to income |
| Medical/Dental Insurance | Automatically qualifies | $500 - $2,000 | Proportional to income |
| Health Costs (over $100/year) | Automatically qualifies | Varies | Proportional to income |
| Extracurricular Activities | Must prove extraordinary | $1,500 - $8,000 | Proportional to income |
| Educational Programs | Must prove extraordinary | $2,000 - $10,000 | Proportional to income |
| Post-Secondary Education | Must prove necessary | $10,000 - $30,000 | Proportional to income |
Tax Implications and Credits
Understanding tax treatment helps parents accurately calculate net Section 7 costs for extracurricular activities in Saskatchewan.
Federal Tax Credits
The federal Children's Fitness Tax Credit was eliminated in 2017. Parents cannot claim hockey registration, dance lessons, or other sports and arts fees as federal tax deductions unless the activity qualifies as childcare under CRA guidelines. This means most extracurricular expenses no longer generate direct federal tax benefits.
Saskatchewan Active Families Benefit
The Active Families Benefit provides up to $150 per child ($200 for children with disabilities) for families with gross income up to $60,000. This refundable benefit applies to sports, cultural, and recreational activities and must be deducted from gross costs before calculating proportional sharing.
Canada Child Benefit
The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is non-taxable and helps cover general costs of raising children under 18. While CCB is not specifically designated for extracurricular activities, it provides financial support that may indirectly assist with activity costs. Both parents should file annual tax returns to ensure proper CCB calculation and allocation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can one parent unilaterally enroll a child in an expensive activity and demand the other parent pay their share?
No, unilateral enrollment without consultation typically weakens or defeats a Section 7 expense claim in Saskatchewan courts. The case of Hawkins v. Hawkins (2019 ONSC 7149) established that prior consultation is a relevant factor in determining entitlement. Courts expect parents to discuss and agree upon significant extracurricular expenses before enrollment. If you enroll your child in a $6,000 hockey program without the other parent's knowledge or consent, a court may decline to order shared payment or reduce the non-consenting parent's contribution.
What if we cannot afford an activity the child participated in before separation?
Saskatchewan courts balance the child's continued participation against changed financial circumstances. If combined parental income has significantly decreased since separation, courts may find the expense no longer reasonable under current means. However, courts give weight to pre-separation spending patterns and the child's established interests. The solution may involve reducing the activity level (recreational versus competitive), seeking financial assistance or scholarships, or the higher-earning parent contributing a larger absolute amount while maintaining proportional sharing.
How do I prove an expense qualifies as extraordinary under Section 7?
You must demonstrate the expense meets the three-part test: necessity (child's best interests), reasonableness (given parental means), and consistency (with pre-separation family patterns). Gather evidence including the child's participation history and demonstrated interest, professional assessments supporting the activity's benefit to the child, cost documentation (registration receipts, equipment invoices, tournament fees), your income and the other parent's income, and the family's pre-separation spending on similar activities. Courts examine whether the expense exceeds what you can reasonably cover given your income and child support received.
Does the higher-earning parent always pay more for extracurricular activities?
Yes, Section 7 expenses are shared proportionally based on gross income, so the higher-earning parent always contributes a larger dollar amount. If Parent A earns $100,000 and Parent B earns $50,000, Parent A pays 66.7% of qualifying expenses while Parent B pays 33.3%. For a $4,500 annual expense, Parent A contributes $3,000 and Parent B contributes $1,500. This proportional sharing applies regardless of which parent has primary parenting time or who initially pays the expense.
What happens if my co-parent refuses to pay their share of agreed-upon expenses?
If you have a court order or written agreement requiring proportional sharing and your co-parent refuses to pay, you have enforcement options. Saskatchewan's Family Maintenance Program can enforce court-ordered Section 7 expenses through wage garnishment, license suspension, or other collection measures. For amounts not covered by existing orders, you may need to apply to court for a specific order addressing the unpaid expenses. Keep detailed records of all expenses, payment requests, and the other parent's responses.
Are summer camps considered extracurricular activities under Section 7?
Summer camps can qualify under different Section 7 categories depending on their nature. Employment-related day camps allowing parents to work may qualify as childcare expenses under Section 7(1)(a), which has a lower threshold than extracurricular activities. Specialized sports or arts camps may qualify as extraordinary extracurricular expenses under Section 7(1)(f), requiring proof of the three-part test. Academic enrichment camps may qualify as educational expenses under Section 7(1)(d). Typical overnight summer camp costs range from $500 to $2,000 per week in Saskatchewan.
How often should Section 7 expense sharing be recalculated?
Section 7 sharing percentages should be recalculated whenever either parent's income changes significantly, typically defined as a change of 10% or more. Saskatchewan's Child Support Service offers free recalculation of base child support when income changes but does not recalculate Section 7 expenses. Parents should exchange annual income information (tax returns or Notices of Assessment) and adjust their Section 7 percentages accordingly. Many separation agreements require annual income disclosure by a specific date, often June 1.
Can my child's contribution reduce what parents pay for activities?
Yes, under Section 7(2) of the Federal Child Support Guidelines, the expense is shared after deducting any contribution from the child. If your 16-year-old works part-time and contributes $500 toward their $3,500 hockey costs, parents share the remaining $3,000 proportionally. Courts expect reasonable contributions from older children, particularly for post-secondary education. The case of Lewi v. Lewi (2006 CanLII 15446) established that adult children should make reasonable and meaningful contributions toward post-secondary expenses.
What if the other parent earns significantly less than me?
Proportional sharing means lower-earning parents contribute smaller absolute amounts, not equal dollar amounts. If you earn $120,000 and your co-parent earns $30,000, you pay 80% while they pay 20% of qualifying Section 7 expenses. For a $5,000 activity, you contribute $4,000 and they contribute $1,000. If the lower-earning parent cannot afford even their proportional share, courts may adjust expectations around which activities are considered reasonable given the family's overall means.
Do I need a lawyer to resolve Section 7 expense disputes?
While lawyers are not required, legal advice helps ensure your rights are protected and you understand the relevant legal tests. Saskatchewan offers several self-help options including the Family Law Information Centre (free information and guidance), Legal Aid Saskatchewan (for qualifying low-income applicants), family mediation services (often less expensive than litigation), and the Parenting After Separation program (free educational sessions). For straightforward disputes involving clear documentation and cooperative co-parents, negotiated agreements without lawyers are common.
Fee Disclaimer: Court filing fees of $200-$300 and judgment fees of $95 are accurate as of January 2026. Verify current fees with the Saskatchewan Court of King's Bench registry before filing, as the province periodically adjusts its fee schedule.
This guide provides general legal information about extracurricular activities child support Saskatchewan requirements and is not legal advice for your specific situation. Saskatchewan family law involves complex interactions between federal and provincial legislation. Consult a qualified Saskatchewan family lawyer for advice tailored to your circumstances.