James & Shell Have split help needed

brainfreeze

Hi James

Although I don't know you, I'm sorry to hear of your split - but from what you say you both seem to be comfortable with the decision. Hope all goes well for both of you - now and in the future.

I am not sure...but think...that if Shell goes onto any kind of benefits (may or may not happen) that CSA get informed then unless Shell advises the benefits agency that you are paying her and how much (basically I think benefits will inform CSA if she says you are not paying her as they will give her the amount she is entitled to but they will want to ensure that they get back from you what they believe you should be paying...and if you are already paying but she hasn't told them it becomes very difficult) - I might be wrong though....BUT if she does go on benefits, hard and horrible as it may sound...pay her through your bank or cheque, but make sure you can prove you paid it. I'm not saying she will ever claim she hasn't received money from you, but if things turn nasty and she does you need to be able to demonstrate that you have provided financial support and how much.

I don't know if you have looked at the CSA website:eek: - but there is a calculator here which give guidance on what you might be asked to pay if it went through CSA.....obviously you will know what you feel is right and this could well exceed CSA's figures, but it's helpful to have a baseline figure to start from.

As I said...wishing you both (and your son) well for the future and fingers crossed it all remains amicable.

Mrs_Beatson

Sea78 wrote: »

You don't have to inform the CSA - that's really only when one parent is refusing to pay or is messing about.

Hi James!
I'm just a newbie here and i KNOW someone much more informed than I, will be along in just a moment!

I agree with Sea, above. However I would add to that, if Shell has to claim any kind of benefits then she will be OBLIGED to provide your details to them. This can only be avoided if she feels her or your childs welfare would be in danger if she did tell them.
It is simply a matter of YOU paying for you child rather than the benefits paying and, as we all know the CSA is the one that chases you for it.

I wish you both the very best of British luck.. good on you both for being so darn grown-up...you both know its not just about the two of you anymore.

take care in all you do
and good luck with it all

x