Really needing advice,re separation.

deni123

Am feeling very lost, haven't been on here for a long time but need advice. My husband and I are separating after 12 years together.we are married. We live in a rented property quite far from my family and friends. We have until February left on the lease. He is still living at the house at the moment,and we haven't told the children yet.

I am lost as to what benefits I am entitled too. Or even where to start looking. I know housing benefit would never cover my rent so I am trying to find a cheaper property if we can get out of the lease. He has said he will pay any extra rent on top of housing benefit.but am being realistic and keeping in mind that it will not stay this way.

He has always paid for everything as he has a well paid job, I work part time for his business. Am looking for another job. He is fine with me staying working there until I find something else. I don't want to just quit, as it will drive me mad not working.
But we have 2 children together and finding something else is difficult to fit around the children.

We have £10k in savings together, I have another £5k in an isa. Both our bank accounts are joint.
I have already opened a separate bank account and he will direct debit my wages into that.

Just need advice on where to go from here really,

neneromanova

Savings would be split down the middle (as a starting point), and depending on the amount of children you have he will have to give you 15% of pay for 1 child, 20% for 2 children, 25% for 3.

You'll be able to claim child benefit (should already), child tax credit, housing benefit, council tax relief and JSA (depending on the ages of children.

duchy

You do realize that he will be paying 20% of his income to you for child support on top of any benefits you are entitled to -as "he has a well paid job" . You may also find that working part-time so qualifying for WTC works out better than fulltime once you take child care costs into account.

First step is to look at the different scenarios and what you are entitled to -as they may impact on the choices you make.

Do you have ties to the area and want to stay -or would you be happier moving closer to family if they can offer support/childcare ?

Lots to consider.

deni123

Will the amount of savings I have effect benefits? the children each have £4k in their savings accounts. I have been told this should not effect it as it has been paid in at £50 per month for years as this can be proven. And will continue to be paid in every month by their dad.
Already get child benefit.

deni123

Thanks for the replies, I want to move closer to family as they can help with child care. Only looking at part time work at the moment, had a quick look on tax credits calculator and seems to work out better if I work part time.