From April 2010 the rules regarding benefits and child maintenance are to change.

For parents who have the day-to-day care of their children who receive benefits or are on a low income and are in receipt of child maintenance, will from April, be able to keep every penny of the maintenance that is paid to them without it affecting the amount of benefits they can receive.

This will hopefully encourage parents to come to an agreement with regard to the amount of child maintenance payable, as they know that they will be receiving the full amount of money rather than have a substantial part of it deducted from their benefits.

If you require any further assistance on this subject you can contact the Child Maintenance Options Service on 0800 988 0988.

Alternatively, if you require any further advice or assistance relating to children, concerning contact or residence, please do not hesitate to contact our family team.