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Maintenance payments

Maintenance is money paid by one person to support another — like a child, spouse, civil partner or qualified cohabitant.

Child maintenance helps cover a child’s living costs. It can be arranged privately or through a court order.

Maintenance often comes up after a relationship ends — such as a separation, divorce or the end of a civil partnership. Some cohabitants may also be entitled to maintenance under the law.

  • Apply for a maintenance order

    You can apply to the Court for maintenance if someone is not supporting you or your child.

  • Maintenance not paid

    If maintenance isn’t paid, you can ask the court to enforce the order and recover what you’re owed

  • Who can apply for maintenance

    You can apply for maintenance if you need financial support from a spouse, civil partner or parent.

  • Change or appeal an order

    Ask the court to change or appeal an order if you disagree with the decision or your circumstances have changed.

  • I have been severed

    Find out what to do if you’ve received divorce papers and how to respond before the court date.

  • Legal help and mediation services

    Learn how to get legal advice or help from a solicitor. Find out what mediation is and how it can help you reach an agreement without going to court.