Hi
Looking for some advice please?
I have searched the internet but can’t find a definitive answer to my question?
My son is 19, he turns 20 at the end of July this year.
He has just finished a level 3, full time college course and intends to go to university in September.
I have always paid for my son by way of a family arrangement between his mum and myself.
I see my son on a regular basis which I love, I have always paid for day to day items like clothing, shoes, school trips, food or anything needed.
My question is, when does child maintenance actually stop?
Is it the day his college course ends?
Is it the day he turns 20?
Is it the day child benefit stops for his mum?
Is it another date?
Many thanks for your help?
Normally, it would stop in September if he's going to University, but there is an age limit of 20 for this, so in your case, it should be July when it stops? This is assuming you are paying through CMS - if it's a private arrangement (and not a court order) then you could stop paying now and there isn't a great deal your ex can do, as CMS won't open a case now.
Thanks for your reply
Maintenance was agreed privately between myself and sons mum, it was suggested by child maintenance 15+ years ago we do it that way so that’s how it’s always been.
Your son will still need support so you could consider making him an allowance directly. Then you could be sure he is getting the benefit. I don't know whether that would affect his grant so perhaps that should be investigated first.
Yes absolutely he will and will always receive it from me.
A direct allowance between him and me was already in my mind but thanks for your advice 👍🏻