budget for spouse maintenance

legallymedicated

My wife and I are seperated and she is looking for financial support. I have moved in with my mother,initially on a temp basis,now she is frail and needs some care. I have a small CS pension and work in supported employment in the NHS I had a history of mental health probs.

Just looking for a few pointers that I would need to include. The Obvious ones are Rent (includes heat and light) Food, Car Loan, Petrol Costs, Car insurance,Car tax, Car running Costs,Clothing,Dental and optical,Telephone,Savings, Legal costs,

I am finding this v stressful and dont want my employment jeopardised.
My wife also has various benefits incl housing. I was wondering if she would lose benefit £ for £ if she got maintenance or could another option be worked out

Confused and in need of help

Philip

floss2

I'm sorry if it seems rude, but why is she looking for financial assistance? Is it because she cannot manage on her benefits, or because she wishes to "make you pay"? Also, she may well lose her benefits £ for £...and things like help with optical & dental care costs.

I don't think there is any obligation to pay spousal maintenance anymore, unless your wife is unable to support herself for any particular reason?

margaretclare

If your wife is claiming benefits in her own right then yes, of course, she would lose benefits if you started giving her money for her 'maintenance' as well as her benefits.

I didn't think women expected to be 'maintained' any more (sounds like a car that needs maintenance!!!)

However, she may have a solicitor who is advising her to 'try it on'.

floss2

Can I ask how old your wife is and how your income relates to hers, i.e. is your income double or more than hers? What happened to your marital home and what do you propose to do regarding sharing any pensions on both sides as & when you divorce?