How Much Child Maintenance Should I Receive?
If your child lives mainly with you, you're entitled to receive child maintenance from the other parent. This guide explains how much you should receive, how to get it, and what to do if there are problems.
In This Guide
What You're Entitled To
Child maintenance is calculated based on the paying parent's income, not yours. The standard rates are:
| Children | % of Gross Income |
|---|---|
| 1 child | 12% |
| 2 children | 16% |
| 3+ children | 19% |
These rates apply to the "Basic Rate" band (income £200-£800/week). The amount is reduced if the other parent has significant shared care.
Estimating What You Should Receive
To estimate your entitlement, you need to know (or estimate) the other parent's gross income:
Quick Estimates by Income (2 children, no shared care)
- £25,000 income → £333/month
- £35,000 income → £467/month
- £45,000 income → £589/month
- £60,000 income → £739/month
If you don't know their income, the CMS will obtain it from HMRC when you apply.
How to Get Child Maintenance
You have three main options:
1. Family-Based Arrangement
Agree directly with the other parent. Free, flexible, but relies on cooperation and trust. Good if you have a reasonable relationship.
2. CMS Direct Pay
Apply to CMS (£20 fee), they calculate the amount, but payments go directly between you. You receive 100% of the calculated amount.
3. CMS Collect & Pay
CMS collects and transfers payments. Best if the other parent is unreliable. However, 4% is deducted from your payments as a fee.
Applying to the CMS
To apply for CMS child maintenance:
- Call the CMS on 0800 171 2345 or apply online at gov.uk
- Pay the £20 application fee
- Provide details about your child and the other parent
- The CMS will contact the other parent and obtain income information from HMRC
- You'll receive a calculation showing how much you should get
The process typically takes 4-6 weeks, though it can be longer if the other parent is difficult to contact.
If They're Not Paying
If the other parent stops paying or doesn't pay the full amount, your options depend on your arrangement:
Family Arrangement
You can't enforce a private arrangement. Consider applying to the CMS for an official calculation.
CMS Direct Pay
Report missed payments to the CMS. They may move you to Collect & Pay and take enforcement action.
CMS Collect & Pay
The CMS will pursue non-payment using enforcement powers including wage deductions, bank orders, and liability orders.
Variations: Getting More Than the Standard Amount
You can apply for a "variation" to increase maintenance if you believe the other parent:
- Has income not captured in HMRC records (e.g., foreign income)
- Is diverting income to avoid maintenance
- Has assets over £31,250 that could generate income
- Has a lifestyle inconsistent with their declared income
- Has unearned income over £2,500/year
Variations require evidence and are decided case-by-case by the CMS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my income affect how much I receive?
No. Child maintenance is based entirely on the paying parent's income. Your earnings, savings, or other income are irrelevant.
What if I don't know where the other parent lives or works?
The CMS has powers to trace people. They can use HMRC and DWP records to locate the other parent and their employer.
Can I get backdated payments?
The CMS can backdate maintenance to the date of your application, but not before. You can't claim for years before you applied.
What happens to child maintenance if I start a new relationship?
Your new partner's income doesn't affect child maintenance. You'll continue to receive the same amount regardless of your relationship status.