What income for child-related budget?

Questioner

Since the divorce has been filed with the court, I have been advised to apply for child-related budget. I cannot yet enter alimony as income because it will only start (reference date) once the house has been sold. I assume that I will only enter my income now and if I receive alimony after selling the house, I will adjust the information. Because I am staying in the house now, the agreement states that my ex-husband will contribute to the living expenses in the form of half of the interest charges that he pays to the bank. Is this also income that is relevant for the amount of the child-related budget?

Lawyer

The income that counts for the calculation of the child-related budget includes various income components. This is broadly your taxable annual income. In addition to wages from work, it can also consist of profits from your own business, benefits, pension, and other income components. Your ex-husband's contribution to the maintenance by paying part of the interest charges could possibly be considered income, as it contributes to your total income picture. However, this is a specific situation that can vary from case to case. In this situation, it is advisable to seek expert advice from, for example, a tax advisor or a lawyer specialising in family law. They can provide better advice, tailored to your situation, on the effects of this arrangement on your income and child-related budget. Please note that any changes in your income, including your ex-husband's contribution to the mortgage interest, must be reported to the Tax Authorities as soon as possible.