Hartnell Chanot: Divorce/Family Law Solicitors Exeter, Devon

Child support through the CSA

What are your financial child support responsibilities
after separation?

Child support is payable by the non-resident parent, or if residence is shared equally, the parent not in receipt of Child Benefit.

Child support is calculated by applying a certain percentage to the net income, allowing for certain deductions of the non-resident parent and then reducing the amount by "sevenths" according to how many days per week the non-resident parent looks after the children: -

• 15% for one child

• 20% for two children

• 25% for three children

Child support payments can be agreed and paid voluntarily. However, if a non-resident parent does not pay, then the CSA has powers to pursue and collect such payments on behalf of the resident parent. If you are paying/receiving child support under the "old" regulations the calculation that has been carried out is different to the above. Your solicitor will be able to advise you.

The CSA operate a helpline and their website, which is full of useful information and includes an online calculator is to be found at www.csa.gov.uk and their helpline number is 08457 133 133. They will give you a preliminary calculation over the phone.