Child support query

My ex left me when he found out I was pregnant. Although starting motherhood again is not something I wanted or planned I decided to go through with it although I am well aware he wants nothing physically to do with his child. He has agreed to pay child maintenance (in principle anyway). He has a child with a previous partner to whom he pays 15% of his net income. Can someone advise me of what percentage I can claim for this child. Many thanks

Best thing to do is contact the CSA. There is a calculator and its secureonline.dwp.gov.uk/csa/v2/en/calculate-maintenance.asp

I would ring them up. It is my understanding that the maint is shared. But I am no expert sorry. Chris

If both you and his other ex are claiming through the CSA, then they calculate the percentage for two children (20% of net income I think) and you are supposed to share it between you. This is of course a problem as it will mean that you will both get less than if one of you had both children. If what he is paying for the other child is not through CSA then CSA don't take it into account and just award you the 15%.

In my experience the CSA helpline is very good about clarifying this sort of thing so it is worth giving them a ring, as Chris suggests. The number is on the website.

Good luck, and enjoy your pregnancy, even given the circumstances. Make sure your midwife and, when the baby is born, your health visitor, know what has happened to you so they can support you properly.

Sadie