Child support concerns the financial support for the upbringing and care of children after a divorce. Both parents have the duty to contribute to these costs according to their ability.
Legal Responsibility
According to the law, parents must provide for the costs of upbringing and care of their minor children. This obligation remains in force after a divorce and continues until the child reaches the age of 21.
Age and Maintenance Obligation
| Age of the Child | Obligation of Parents |
|---|---|
| 0 - 18 years | Full responsibility for maintenance |
| 18 - 21 years | Responsibility for living expenses and study costs |
| 21 years and older | No legal obligation anymore |
How is Child Support Calculated?
The determination of child support takes place in various stages:
- Establish the child's needs: Based on Nibud guidelines and family income
- Deduct child-related budget: This reduces the total need
- Determine the financial capacity of parents: What can each parent contribute?
- Allocate costs according to capacity: Division based on financial possibilities
- Apply care discount: Reduction for the non-custodial parent in case of contact
Nibud Guidelines
The costs for children are determined using Nibud tables:
| Net Family Income | Costs 0-5 years | Costs 12-17 years |
|---|---|---|
| € 2,500 per month | approximately € 400 | approximately € 550 |
| € 4,000 per month | approximately € 550 | approximately € 750 |
| € 6,000 per month | approximately € 700 | approximately € 950 |
Care Discount for Contact
The parent with whom the child does not primarily reside receives a discount on the support for the time the child is with him/her:
| Duration of Stay | Discount on Support |
|---|---|
| 1 day per week | 15% |
| 2 days per week | 25% |
| 3 days per week (co-parenting) | 35% |
When does child support end?
The obligation to pay child support normally stops when the child turns 21. This can happen earlier if the child is financially independent through work. For studying children, the obligation often continues until 21.Must my ex spend the support specifically?
There is no legal obligation on how child support must be spent exactly, but it must benefit the child. If you suspect the money is not being used correctly, you can ask the court for an explanation, although this is legally complex.Can the amount of child support be adjusted?
Yes, in case of changes in circumstances, the support can be revised. This includes a change in income, the child's relocation, a different care arrangement or if the child starts earning income itself.Frequently Asked Questions about Child Support in Zoetermeer
How is the exact amount of child support determined?
The calculation proceeds in five steps: first establish the child's costs via Nibud tables, then deduct the child-related budget, subsequently determine the capacity of both parents, divide the costs pro rata and finally apply a care discount. For a precise calculation, you can use an online tool or seek legal advice from the Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer.
What to do if my ex does not pay the support?
If payment is not made, you can enlist the help of the Landelijk Bureau Inning Onderhoudsbijdragen (LBIO) for attachment on income or assets. Additionally, you can request a writ of execution via the Rechtbank Den Haag. In case of persistent non-payment, the court can impose sanctions. Contact a lawyer or the LBIO.
Can I stop paying if my child moves in with me?
If the living and care situation changes, you can request an adjustment of the support. In case of equally shared care (co-parenting), the obligation may even lapse. However, this must be legally documented via a mediator or lawyer to prevent problems.
How long do I pay support if my child is studying?
The payment obligation lasts until the child is 21, even during studies. Only if the child becomes fully self-supporting can the obligation end earlier. For full-time studies, the support usually continues until the 21st birthday. Always discuss changes with your ex-partner or a legal advisor.