Child benefit

[Mellowmallow201]

Went to court as DC dad wanted 50/50. Mostly fueled by the fact he didn't want to pay me maintenance. Anyway I've asked if he could pay 50% for DC hobbies and trips that I've been paying for 100%. He's now requesting 50% of child benefit. He earns a considerable amount more than me and I've said i earn alot less and would struggle. I'm struggling anyway paying for all the hobbies and trips on my own. He's only Said this because I've asked for help with the hobbies and trips. So what have other people done in my situation. HMRC website states if we disagree to write to them and they will decide. I've suggested this to DC dad.

It’s not clear whether the outcome of court was 50/50 and no CMS?
Even if so, is it genuinely 50/50 in practice?
It’s confusing also that you say “DC” - how many? It’s possible to claim for one each.
You can’t force him to pay for hobbies that you choose.
So I’d tell him you’re taking all the CB and 50% of that is his contribution to clubs. Then cut your cloth accordingly - if kid (or kids?) want more clubs, they’ll have to ask him.
It’s better to pay 100% of half the clubs, rather than share cost with someone who may dick you about paying up.

You would need to get his agreement beforehand about clubs and trips, so effectively ask his permission if he is to contribute.

The system is pretty crap and designed so these guys can do less than the minimum financially unfortunately.

Your choices are basically to ask him beforehand and await his response, then wait and see if any cash comes forward from him after he umms and ahhs about deciding, or just get on with it yourself.

One child. Contact is equally 50/50 and because its that way it means no more child maintenance

He had agreed to the hobbies that DS currently does. I asked him about the trips and asked if he could pay half. He agreed. It's only now that I've actually asked for the money after a few months of not saying anything that he's now kicking up a fuss and demanding half the child benefit.

This man when we were together years ago was abusive and also financially abusive. Looks like he is trying to continue to do it.

If he earns a lot more than you would he even qualify for child benefit? There is a cut off. But if he does and it’s genuinely 50/50 and he pays half for trips etc. the yes I think it’s fair to share the CB.

Or you could agree that CB pays for clubs and take that off the club & trip amount before splitting the rest.