Here is an example using Colorado's child support schedules. If one parent had primary custody of the children, the other probably would make a cash payment to that parent. The parent with primary custody probably would not make a cash payment as such, but would be assumed to be spending that amount on the children. Alternatively, the parents might set up a checking account for the children's expenses, deposit their respective shares into the account, and agree on the type of expenses that could be paid from the account. Departing From Support Guidelines States vary in the degree to which child support guidelines are specific.
Some guidelines are quite detailed and consider many factors.
Courts usually do not depart from such guidelines except in exceptional cases. Everything you need for court related issues. The Intelligent Alternative to Court. Excellent legal service at your convenience. For less than you'd expect.