Hi, Dad of 2, split over 3 years ago.
I've always paid more than the CMS website suggested because when I initially left, I was trying to do the right thing. I also had more spare cash as living arrangements with family and friends meant I did not have the same expenses as I do now (with my own accommodation etc), so when asked for help have given extra £1000 or so as a one off payment here and there. Have always had the kids every other weekend and a couple of evenings after school.
Now I still pay way more than the calculator suggests, but have not been able to give extra when asked as circumstances have changed. Ex is quite unreasonable and has high expectations, partly bought on by myself for accommodating her when she has asked. Ex recently bought up what I have paid since we split hasn't gone up and not been addressed over the years with my assumed pay increases and bonuses. Also stating with cost of living rises, her own job and the fact she now wants to drive that's she feels I should be paying more and for that. Implying she was going to go to CMS, I thought I would just get on and apply myself, not knowing she had already applied. I will ring CMS to sort this, but that's another discussion.
I have never told her I have been paying more than CMS website suggests, I've kept my mouth shut so avoiding arguments with someone unreasonable who assumes they are entitled to more. How accurate is the calculator? I'm nervous they will come back and want me to pay something extortionate or that it will bite her in the [censored] if it is accurate and I don't have to pay as much which will cause more drama.
Apologies for the ramble.
Tldr: How accurate is the CMS calculator?
Side question, how long does it normally take for them to come back with a figure and due date?
To the best of my knowledge, it's pretty accurate for relatively simple cases - the calculation os based on gross income (less pensions etc), number of children and number of nights they stay with you.