Child benefit and support: how the child benefit is credited

The child benefit actually belongs to the child and is meant to cover its need. That is why it is credited against the support. For minor children, half the child benefit is deducted from the table amount, that yields the actual payment amount. For adults, the full child benefit is credited.

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For minor children, half the child benefit is credited against the cash support, because the caring parent provides their part through the care (§ 1612b BGB). The payment amount is therefore lower than the table amount.

For adult children, both parents are generally liable proportionally for cash support; the full child benefit is then credited against the need and reduces the payments of both parents.

What you should do now

1
1. Determine the table amount
Determine the support according to the Duesseldorf Table based on income and age tier.
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2. Classify the child benefit
Clarify whether the child is a minor (half-crediting) or an adult (full crediting).
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3. Calculate the payment amount
For minors, deduct half the child benefit from the table amount, that is the amount to be paid.
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4. Note the payout
The child benefit is generally received by the caring parent; the crediting balances this out in the support.

How to spot the scam

The child benefit is not credited at all and the support is set too high.
For an adult child, only half instead of the full child benefit is considered.
The table amount and the payment amount are confused.

Frequently asked questions

Why is the child benefit credited against the support?

Because the child benefit is meant to benefit the child. For minors it is half-credited: the caring parent provides their share through the care, the other pays the table amount reduced by half the child benefit (§ 1612b BGB).

How much child benefit is deducted?

For minor children, half the child benefit, for adult children the full child benefit. The amount remaining after the deduction is the actual payment amount.

Who receives the child benefit paid out?

Generally the parent with whom the child lives. The crediting against the support ensures that the other parent is, in the end, relieved by their share of the child benefit.

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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.