How does child maintenance affect benefits?

Some people can be concerned that child maintenance payments will affect any allowances and benefits they receive.

Child maintenance payments

Child maintenance payments will not affect any social security benefits received as parents with care can keep all child maintenance paid and it will not affect their benefits. Housing Benefit and tax credit awards also won’t be affected by child maintenance

If you’re on benefits, it’s your responsibility to let the Social Security Agency know about your child maintenance payments (for example how much you’re receiving and how often).

• Social Security / Jobs and Benefits Offices (contacts section)

Further advice

If you want to discuss this in more detail, you can contact Child Maintenance Choices freephone* information line at the number below and discuss your choices.

• 0800 028 7439*

*Some service providers may charge for the call. If so, the Child Maintenance Choices would be happy to call you back once you have given your contact details.

• How can I contact Child Maintenance Choices?