Child maintenance is about contributing to a child’s everyday living costs. For most separated parents in England and Wales, the Child Maintenance Service (CMS) is the main route — but it is not the whole picture in every case.
CMS calculations
The CMS uses a formula based largely on the paying parent’s gross income and the number of children. Shared care can affect the calculation. Direct Pay and Collect & Pay are the usual collection options.
When court provision may arise
School fees, disability-related costs, or claims under Schedule 1 of the Children Act 1989 for unmarried parents can sit outside ordinary CMS maintenance. High-income cases may also raise additional issues.
When to get advice
If maintenance is unpaid, disputed, or your situation falls outside a standard CMS case, get advice before positions harden.