[Solved] Maintenance - been made redundant

Are you actually using CSA at the moment? If not, is it just a private arrangement or is there a court order in place for maintenance?

Whatever the answer, ideally you are best placed to be using CSA (now CMS) for this, so if it isn't already with them, I'd look at opening a case with them yourself - that way they will do the calculation (as you say, zero at the moment) and inform your ex. You will need to inform them as soon as you have an income coming in so they can reassess. As a matter of interest, why haven't you applied for JSA? You've presumably been paying tax for long enough, so there's no reason why you shouldn't get the benefits until you are back in work.

Hi There,

I agree with actd, if you aren't already set up through CSA or CMS then go that route, they will then asses and tell you what should be paid, if you opt for direct pay, rather than collect and pay, then even if the amount comes back as zero, then you can still make payments to your ex.

I was out of work at the end of 2016 but I knew I wouldn't be for long, so I didn't apply for JSA either, mine wasn't down to pride which I know a lot of people say, but more the fact that it takes weeks (up to 6 from memory) to set up, and I knew I would have a job by then even if it was stacking shelves.

GTTS

What I do is specialised so it may be 6 months before I find something. I received an amount tax free from the company which I understand doesn’t get considered for maintenance.

I don’t want realty to sign on as it’ll be very clear I’m working on personal projects or touting myself on linkedin etc.

The csa fills me with dread. I just use the calculator and direct pay at present.

I don’t mind giving the ex a run around given she has me running through the legal process to see my child. I’d sincerely hope this maybe spurs some positive outcome.

If your personal projects aren't being paid, then that shouldn't affect JSA, and part of the condition of JSA is that you are looking for work, so touting yourself on Linkedin isn't a problem. GTTS is right that it takes 6 weeks, so if you find yourself a job then you haven't lost anything by trying, but if nothing comes up before then, you may as well be on the way to claiming - if they find you a job which isn't suitable, and you turn it down (possibbly 2 jobs turned down) then you might lose it, but at least you have the option. Not trying to pressure you - just making sure you are aware of the options. Good luck in job hunting anyway.