A first figure, without an account
When a lot comes at you at once, it helps to start somewhere. “How much do I have to pay?” is really two questions, with two different calculations. Choose which one your question is about; the estimate from the matching open table follows.
What determines how much you have to pay?
The maintenance amount results from the balance between need and capacity to pay. No two situations are alike. The main factors:
- Income of both partners — determines both the need and the capacity.
- Number and age of the children — via the needs table.
- Care arrangement — the more often the children are with the paying parent, the higher the care discount and the lower the amount payable.
- Housing and exceptional costs — reduce the capacity to pay.
- Benefits and tax — tax credits, the income-dependent combination tax credit (IACK), the child-related budget and the deductibility of spousal maintenance.
Note: there is no fixed percentage of income. Every calculation is tailored under the Dutch Trema guidelines (Rapport Alimentatienormen).
Example: what moves the figure?
How different factors influence the amount (indicative, 1 child):
| Base amount | ± € 388 / month |
| More contact (25% → 35% care discount) | – € 74 / month |
| Higher recipient income (€ 3,000 gross) | – € 76 / month |
| Adding a second child | + € 138 / month |
| Your outcome: always tailored | Calculate it yourself |
Illustrative. Only a full calculation with your figures gives a reliable indication — which the tool does for free.
Frequently asked questions
How much maintenance do I have to pay?
It depends on the need and your capacity to pay. There is no fixed amount or percentage; it is tailored based on income, housing costs, care split and tax factors. A free calculation gives a quick indication.
Is there a fixed percentage?
No. Child maintenance follows the needs table and the capacity of both parents; spousal maintenance follows the needs (often via the Hofnorm, the Dutch courts' rule of thumb), the payer's capacity and the financial balance check (jusvergelijking: a test that the recipient is not left with more than the payer).
What if my income changes?
If your circumstances change, you can recalculate the maintenance; a new calculation shows the effect immediately. The amount does not change by itself: that requires a new agreement with the other party or a court decision. See recalculate maintenance.
Can I calculate it myself?
Yes. With Alimentatie Inzicht you make a free indicative calculation under the Trema guidelines — a good basis for discussion with your ex-partner, mediator or lawyer.