Apply for an advance on child support
Government assistance for children whose single parent receives no child support—or only irregular payments—from the other parent.
How to proceed
- 1
Submit an application to the Department of Children and Family Services
Form containing information about the child, living situation, and child support payments.
- 2
Participation in recourse proceedings
The Child Welfare Office is attempting to recover child support from the other parent.
- 3
Payout
Monthly payment based on the child's age group.
Required documents
- Child's birth certificateMandatory
- Proof of child support payments (or the lack thereof)MandatoryOften forgotten
Responsible authority
The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →
Fees
Varies by case
Processing time
approx. 3 weeks
Official: max. approx. 1 months
Online application
Online possible – at the responsible authority
Common mistakes
- • There is no proof of non-payment
- • Address of the other parent not provided
Common reasons for rejection
- • The child lives with both parents in equal measure
- • The other parent pays child support on a regular basis
You can usually file an objection against a rejection.
The essentials before applying
Who is eligible?
Single parents with children up to age 18 (subject to certain conditions) whose child support is not being paid or is not being paid regularly.
Income limit
For children aged 12 and older: the custodial parent’s own income must be at least €600 (western Germany)/€600 (eastern Germany); otherwise, the child is ineligible.
Processing time
Nationwide: approx. approx. 3 weeks
Success rate
approx. 85.0 % (estimate)
Most common mistakes
- •There is no proof of non-payment
- •Address of the other parent not provided
Common reasons for rejection
- •The child lives with both parents in equal measure
- •The other parent pays child support on a regular basis
Alternatives
- Check related services in the application assistant
- Use social counselling before applying
If rejected
File a written objection within 30 days – with reasons why the decision is wrong and any missing evidence.
Related services
Questions & Answers
Up to what age is advance child support available?▼
Until the child’s 18th birthday; for 12- to 17-year-olds, subject to additional conditions (the custodial parent’s own income, and the child not receiving basic income).