In Zoetermeer, a growing city in the Randstad with many young students, the amount of the maintenance contribution for children between 18 and 21 years is determined by a careful balancing of the parents' capacity to pay and the child's actual need. According to Article 1:395a DCC, the contribution must be reasonable and fit the financial situation of both parties, taking into account local costs such as rent in Zoetermeer.
Parents' Capacity to Pay in Zoetermeer
The capacity to pay is calculated based on income, fixed expenses such as mortgage or rent in neighbourhoods like Buytenwegh or Seghwaert, and other obligations. Judges at the District Court of The Hague, which handles cases from Zoetermeer, use the 'tremanorms' as a guideline. These norms prescribe a percentage of net income, with a higher exemption norm for single parents in a city with relatively high living costs.
Child's Need in Zoetermeer
The need includes study costs at local mbo's or hbo's such as The Hague University of Applied Sciences with campuses in the region, living expenses in Zoetermeer (average €800-€1,000 rent for a student room) and daily living expenses. Invoices for tuition fees, rent in Zoetermeer and study books are crucial to substantiate the claim. The child must prove that own income, such as a part-time job at local retailers in the Stadshart, is insufficient.
Practical Examples from Zoetermeer
In a recent ruling by the District Court of The Hague, the judge awarded a Zoetermeer student €500 per month, based on €1,400 monthly costs (including rent and OV-chipkaart for commuting to The Hague) minus €350 own contribution from a part-time job. Parents with a joint net income below €4,500 often contribute less in Zoetermeer due to the high local expenses.
Important: changes in income or study location must be reported immediately to the judge or bailiff for adjustment. In Zoetermeer, parents can also go to the Juridisch Loket in the Stadshart for free advice.