Melissa Etheridge's ex wants more money in custody case

Singer-songwriter Melissa Etheridge's ex is requesting a hike in the child custody payments, because she is struggling to survive on $23,000-a-month.

RELATED: Tammy Lynn: Melissa Blindsided Me, Left Me Penniless

Actress Tammy Lynn Michaels has filed documents claiming her former girlfriend makes over $177,000-a-month and she got accustomed to an extravagant lifestyle while they were together.

Michaels also claims Etheridge is brainwashing the former couple's kids, training them to be emotionally distant and rude to her, and cursing in front of them, according to the court papers, obtained by TMZ.com.

RELATED: Etheridge Files To End Partnership With Ex

The actress, who wants Etheridge to pay more child support and cover her legal costs, has also taken aim at her ex for refusing to let the kids get vaccinated.

The former partners are heading back to court next month for the latest battle in their custody war over twins Miller and Johnnie.

RELATED: Tammy's Breakup Ode To Melissa: 'I Was Sideswiped and Left Mangled'

During happier times, Etheridge and Michaels exchanged vows in a commitment ceremony in September 2003. Their children were born three years later.

The pair separated in April, 2010.