Morning, Need some advice please! I have been a single mum since the conception of DD. She is now 19 months old and the love of my life. I am fortunate to be a homeowner and a high(ish) earner but not rich. E.g I don’t quality for child benefit but just about get 30 funded nursery hours. I feel comfortable with my bills but supporting myself on maternity leave alone drained my savings and I still have to be mindful of my spending.
Was in a relationship with DD’s dad for about 4 years. DD’s dad still lives at home with his parents and is probably on around £35k a year. He gives me £150 a month. I have asked for more but he says he is broke and cannot afford to. He also said he cannot afford to continue to nursery so I’ve had to manage that on my own. When DD was freshly born he told me (quite sternly) he doesn’t want to go on CMS and he would rather pay money into my account.
He has recently gotten engaged and is due to be married. His lifestyle doesn’t reflect as someone who is broke. His fiancé also has a daughter whom he is contributing towards.
Recently he said he is starting a business soon and in a few years he should be a very high earner and will be able to contribute more. It’s hard to know if he will ever give me more.
I’ve heard that men can sometimes avoid paying CMS and if he goes self employed that will be even easier for him to avoid paying it.
Do I apply for CMS and risk my secure £150 a month? Or should I wait it out and see if he contributes more when he has more money? Baring in mind he will have a wife and probably more children soon.
AIBU to now apply for CMS?