Universal credit, separation, and mortgage payments

[Bloballbovish]

I'm separating from my wife and for now I'm staying in the family home with our young kids. I'm a sahm so I need to apply for universal credit.

My wife said she'll continue to pay the mortgage, but I'm wondering if this will affect my claim? Will it make a difference if she pays all the mortgage, in lieu of child maintenance, or should I say for her to pay half, I pay half, and she gives me separate money for child maintenance?

I know that it can make a difference for splitting the equity in the house at a later date, but I'm specifically asking how it affects my universal credit for now.

So you’re a same sex couple?

Has she formally adopted the children? I’m not sure about UC but unless she she is a bio or adoptive parent she may not be obliged to pay CM at all. Legally, if not morally that is.

It may make a difference as to whether payment is considered child maintenance or not.

She's on their birth certificate, no need to adopt, so yes she'll be liable for CM.

Universal credit asks if you will need help with household costs. You will just state no. This will mean your work allowance is higher.
Child maintenance isn't factored in for income with UC but it is with council tax support.

I would set the payment up as child support. Then you pay your bills as you wish. This protects both of you. As the paying parent can show they are paying. And the receiving parent can claim UC in full. My ex promised me the earth when he left. Like many this lasted about six months. And not had a penny in 3 years. So it is best to be as self sufficient as possible. How ever that looks.

@Danikm151

Universal credit asks if you will need help with household costs. You will just state no. This will mean your work allowance is higher. Child maintenance isn't factored in for income with UC but it is with council tax support.

No work allowance if not working . Op says she a sahm.