Money Moral Dilemma: Should I pay extra child maintenance during lockdown?

PaulTee

What would be your thoughts if it was the other way round - would you expect / like some more money to help with the additional feeding and no doubt keeping amused.
Certainly sounds to me you should - and access is a different subject.
One would hope that your ex, dependent upon the childrens ages, will explain to them how you are helping out even though you cannot see them.

tgroom57

One other thing, check if this is still what you both want.  It's possible that this arrangement has gone on longer than either of you expected, and there could be a better chance of seeing your children now.

JayD

These are YOUR children and I believe that you should share equal responsibility for them. They need to eat, be clothed, washed, transported etc etc wherever they are and whoever they are with. If they aren't with you, then you should be contributing to the extra costs being born by the person they ARE with. You say that not seeing them during this time was a joint decision which you agreed with. It is also a totally separate issue. If you feel it now needs to be renegotiated then do so.

Faceuptoreality

If people only made children with "for life" partners then this question would not arise.

Having said that the obvious answer is - YES PAY MORE.

gokarna

That is an unfair comment, my daughter had children with her 'life husband' 
Unfortunately life to him didn't mean a lifetime

REJP

Of course you pay. What is the dilemma here?  Ex had extra expenses due to having the children.
Food, utilities, laundry etc.  You saved on those didn't you?  Look up meaning of word dilemma in dictionary please.

meknowalot-51

As your still on good speaking terms with your ex and able to discuss in an adult manor the welfare of the kids i would say you could offer.Have a chat and maybe the kids need some new shoes or fun items,a gesture of this type will be very welcome,stay safe.

mikeziolek

What you pay as child maintenance - or what you might pay extra during this period - shouldn’t be linked to whether or not you’re seeing your children.  My conscience would tell me I ought to be contributing at least the amount I’m spending on food at weekends - and assuming you’re still earning, this wouldn’t present a problem.  My wife left me nearly 20 years ago, our children are grown up now.  My advice to you is to be generous to your former wife; ultimately your children will benefit.  Imagine how pleased your ex-partner will be, and your children too, in knowing that you put them first.  Now grown up and flown the nest, my children tell me how much they valued me supporting their mother and them - and not being a skinflint.  Do the right thing!

Comms69

Sorry but do people saying "seeing your kids has no effect on child maintenance" have the first clue how child maintenance is calculated?.... #facepalm

damekaren

All credit to you for considering this.The money you pay is for the children's welfare and support. Speak to your ex and ask how you can help out