Child maintenance

Parents are obliged to look after their children financially in all situations, including after divorce.

You can ask advice from GMW lawyers about child maintenance (also known as child support).

How is child maintenance calculated?

First, the child’s needs are calculated (almost always using Nibud tables). Subsequently, the financial capacity of the parents is calculated. Finally, the maintenance is determined depending on the division of care for the children.

Despite these standards, calculating the amount is always an individual matter. We have a great deal of experience in this.

How long is child maintenance paid?

The obligation to pay child maintenance continues until a child reaches the age of 21. Child maintenance up to the age of 18 must be paid directly to the other parent. From the age of 18, the maintenance can be paid directly to the child, but it can also still be paid to the other parent.

For children aged 21 and over, the law provides that, in principle, the parents no longer have to provide a contribution, but this may be different if a child cannot look after themselves. If you have any questions about this, we can supply the answers.

Can child maintenance be changed?

In many cases it is possible to change child maintenance agreement. Once the amount for children has been agreed or determined by the court, it can be changed if your financial situation or the family situation changes. If the maintenance for children has been determined on the basis of incorrect information, a change may also sometimes be possible.

Whether the maintenance will actually be changed depends on the facts and circumstances of your situation. The experts at GMW lawyers can support you, even if proceedings have to be initiated.

Who has an obligation to pay?

In principle, both parents are financially liable for child maintenance.

In some cases people other than the parents also have an obligation to support the child, for example, a stepparent. On the other hand, a parent who is obliged to pay may also have children from other relationships whom they obliged to support.

In these usually rather complicated situations, GMW lawyers can determine the support for the children.

Is child maintenance tax deductible?

The maintenance is tax-free for the recipient. The maintenance is not tax deductible for the payer. There may be separate tax rules for expats and for maintenance debtors who live abroad. Our specialists have all the financial expertise to support you in your specific situation.

More information

GMW lawyers will be happy to help you with your divorce. If you have any questions, please contact us directly using the enquiry form below or +31 (0)70 3615048. Our divorce lawyers will be happy to support and advise you.

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