How child maintenance impacts your mortgage application

‍Please note: Most lenders will only consider Child Maintenance payments if they are court-ordered or CSA-ordered.

When going through a separation, there are many things to think about, and something that is often overlooked is the impact that child maintenance can have on your mortgage application afterwards.

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What is child maintenance?

Child maintenance is financial support paid by one parent to another for a child’s upbringing. In the UK, this arrangement often follows separation or divorce. Parents can either set this up privately or through the Child Maintenance Service, which ensures payments are made to the child's full-time carer. These payments are intended to cover essential living costs such as housing, food, clothing, and education.

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How child maintenance impacts mortgage applications

For many single parents, child maintenance makes up a significant portion of their income. When applying for a mortgage, some lenders will consider these payments as part of your affordability assessment. This can increase your available borrowing; however, lenders' views of this income vary widely.

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How mortgage lenders view child maintenance

Every lender has its own policy on child maintenance. Some are happy to include the full amount, others will only take a percentage, and some may not include it at all. Lenders will look at factors such as the child’s age, how long the payments are expected to continue, and whether the paying parent has a reliable history of making full and timely payments.

Because policies differ widely, working with a mortgage broker can help you identify lenders who are more flexible and suited to your circumstances.

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Factors lenders consider

• Duration of child maintenance - Lenders assess how long the payments will continue. If they are to be considered in full, they usually need to last for the full mortgage term. If only a portion is being considered, lenders may accept that the payments could end before the mortgage term does.

• Debt-to-income ratio - Your debt-to-income ratio plays a key role. While child maintenance can boost your income, existing debts combined with maintenance payments may affect how much you can borrow.

• Stability of payments - Lenders want to see that child maintenance is reliable. You must be able to show a consistent payment history. Missed or irregular payments can weaken your application, while regular monthly payments will strengthen it.

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Conclusion

Applying for a mortgage after a separation can feel overwhelming, especially when child maintenance forms part of your income. Some lenders will consider these payments, but others may apply limits or exclude them entirely. Understanding how lenders assess child maintenance and being prepared with clear evidence of regular payments can help improve your chances of success.

If you are unsure where to begin or want support finding the right lender for your situation, Hello Mortgage is here to help. Our advisers will guide you through the process, explain your options, and help you present your financial position in the strongest possible way.

Ready to find a lender who understands your income and your goals? Speak to Hello Mortgage today and let us help you secure the mortgage that works for you.

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Tel: 0800 292 2557

Email: hello@hellomortgage.co.uk

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