Maintenance for the caring parent: even without marriage
Unmarried parents also have maintenance rights: whoever cares for the shared child after the birth and therefore cannot work (fully) has their own maintenance claim against the other parent, care maintenance.
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What you should do now
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1. Check the conditions
Do you care for the shared child and are therefore unable to work (fully)?
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2. Determine needs and income
Compare your income with that of the other parent.
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3. Assert the claim
Assert the care maintenance in writing and, if applicable, demand information about the income.
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4. Advice
The calculation and duration are complex, so seek legal advice (advice aid if applicable).
Frequently asked questions
As an unmarried parent, am I entitled to maintenance?
Yes, if you care for the shared child and therefore cannot work or can work only to a limited extent, you are entitled to care maintenance from the other parent (§ 1615l BGB), regardless of whether you were married. This claim exists in addition to the maintenance for the child itself.
How long is care maintenance paid?
As a rule at least until three years after the birth of the child. It can be extended for as long as this is required for reasons of the child's welfare or on grounds of equity, for example if there is no reasonable childcare option. The exact duration and amount depend on the individual case; legal advice helps with enforcement.
Take action now
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General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.