After a separation, the parent with whom the child lives provides care. The other parent pays child support (Kindesunterhalt) in money. The amount is calculated using the Düsseldorf Table (Düsseldorfer Tabelle), a guideline used by all family courts in Germany.
German law applies to child support if the child lives in Germany, regardless of the parents' nationality.
The Düsseldorf Table 2026
The table is divided into income groups and age groups. The first income group, up to €2,100 adjusted net income, corresponds to the minimum support:
| Age | Minimum support 2026 | Amount payable after child benefit |
|---|---|---|
| 0 to 5 | €486 | €356.50 |
| 6 to 11 | €558 | €428.50 |
| 12 to 17 | €653 | €523.50 |
| 18 and over (living with a parent) | €698 | €439 |
With higher incomes, the amounts rise step by step. In the highest income group, they are about twice the minimum support. The table assumes two people entitled to support. With more, a lower group can apply.
How the Calculation Works
- Adjusted net income of the paying parent: net salary minus work-related expenses, certain debts and pension contributions.
- Income group in the table.
- Age group of the child.
- Deduct child benefit: half for minor children, in full for adult children.
- Check the self-retention amount of the paying parent.
Self-Retention Amount
The paying parent must keep enough to live on. In 2026, the minimum self-retention amount towards minor children is €1,450 per month if employed and €1,200 if not employed. If the income is not enough to pay the minimum support, the paying parent may be expected to earn more, for example through a second job.
Shared Care
If both parents care for the child to a similar extent (Wechselmodell), both pay support according to their incomes. The calculation is more complex. If the care is unequal but considerable, the support may be reduced.
Adult Children
Children who are 18 or older can claim support while in school or education. Both parents pay according to their incomes. Students living away from home have a fixed need, which in 2026 is €990 per month, including housing costs.
Advance Maintenance
If the other parent does not pay, the youth welfare office can pay advance maintenance (Unterhaltsvorschuss) for children up to 18 under certain conditions. It then claims the money back from the paying parent.
Claiming Support
- Documented support. The youth welfare office (Jugendamt) can record the support obligation free of charge in an enforceable document.
- Back payment. Support can only be claimed for the past from the time the paying parent was asked for information about income or to pay.
- Court. If no agreement is reached, the family court decides.
Points for Expats
- Parent abroad. If the paying parent lives abroad, international agreements help enforce support in many countries. The Federal Office of Justice can assist.
- Moving abroad with the child. If the child moves abroad, the law of the new country of residence usually applies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is child support taxed?
No. Child support is not taxable income for the child or the caring parent.
Can child support be lower than the minimum?
Only if the paying parent cannot afford it after the self-retention amount.
Does a new partner's income count?
Not directly. But a new spouse can affect the order of priority among those entitled to support.
