Financial Advisor who knows about Benefits

Mumofone22

Hi.

My son has recently moved to 50/50 contact with his Dad and I already pay him half the child benefit and DLA.
I now understand that the child elements of my Universal Credit can only be paid to one parent and my ex is insisting I pay him half of the allowance. This does not however take into consideration the deductions each of us may be subject to on our individual claims.

I want to figure out a fair split and also get advice on my finances now they are significantly reduced but need help.

Does anyone know of a Financial advisor that has knowledge of the benefits system who could offer advice? I am in the South East / Mid Sussex area.

May thanks

caprikid1

Hi, I cannot see any financial advisor willing or able to advise on this , financial advisors are focused on selling financial products, arranging mortgages etc. They are not divorce counsellors who understand the benefit system. Maybe Citizens advice but if you cannot be sensible you will both waste lots of money in court at your sons expense.

TimeLord1

I have seen people mentioning these people below. But I don't think he's entitled if the claim is in your name.

Gingerbread: This is the leading national charity for single parents. They have an excellent helpline (0808 802 0925) and specific toolkits for navigating 50/50 contact and benefit splits.

NedS

I agree with @caprikid1, it is not a financial advisor you seek, but rather a benefits advisor through an organisation such as that suggested by @TimeLord1

Good luck.

rosewalk

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/81888611#Comment_81888611

I would agree with this advice.

elsien

50/50 care, but who buys the school uniforms, pays for regular clubs, activities etc? Who generally bears the cost of the additional disability related needs such as needing clothes more often? Accompanies to appointments? Takes time off work if the child is ill ?Sometimes the split will be equal, other times one parent still does the bulk of the life admin and regular costs outside of food etc, so 50/50 isn’t always as equitable as it sounds.

Your ex can try to insist as much as they like, but it doesn’t work like that.