Question 1

How is child support calculated using the Düsseldorf Table?

Accepted Answer

The Düsseldorf Table assigns needs rates based on the obligor's adjusted net income and the child's age group. Half of the child benefit (€125 of €250) is deducted from the needs rate to determine the actual payment amount. The table assumes two dependants — more or fewer dependants shift the income group down or up accordingly.

Question 2

What is adjusted net income for child support purposes?

Accepted Answer

Adjusted net income is monthly net income after deducting work-related expenses (e.g., commuting costs, work clothing), reasonable debt obligations, and other recognized liabilities. It forms the basis for classification in the Düsseldorf Table and thus determines the level of the support claim.

Question 3

How much child support do I have to pay per child in 2026?

Accepted Answer

Support depends on your income group and the child's age. In the lowest income group (up to €2,100), the payment amount after child benefit deduction ranges from €355 to €564 per month, depending on the age group. With higher income, the amounts increase accordingly — in the highest group (up to €11,200), they can reach €547 to €839.

Question 4

What is the self-retention amount and how much is it in 2026?

Accepted Answer

Self-retention is the minimum amount the obligor must keep for living expenses. As of 2026, it is €1,450 per month for employed obligors of minor children and €1,200 for unemployed obligors. For spousal support, self-retention is €1,600. If income falls below self-retention after support payments, a shortfall case applies.

Question 5

What happens in a shortfall case — if my income is insufficient?

Accepted Answer

In a shortfall case, the obligor's income is not enough to pay full support for all dependants while maintaining the self-retention amount. Payment amounts are then proportionally reduced. Minor children have priority over adult children and spouses under section 1609 of the German Civil Code.

Question 6

Is child benefit offset against child support?

Accepted Answer

Yes, half of the child benefit is offset against cash support. With a child benefit of €250 per child, €125 is deducted from the obligor's needs rate. The other half remains with the custodial parent with whom the child lives. For adult children, the full child benefit is offset.

Question 7

How is spousal support calculated after divorce?

Accepted Answer

Post-marital spousal support is calculated using the 3/7 difference method. First, child support is deducted from the obligor's income. Then the difference between both spouses' adjusted net incomes is calculated, and 3/7 of that difference is set as support. The employed obligor additionally receives an employment bonus of 1/7 of their adjusted income.

Question 8

What is the priority order when there are multiple support claimants?

Accepted Answer

Under section 1609 of the German Civil Code, the priority order is: 1) Minor unmarried children and privileged adult children. 2) Spouses and ex-spouses with long marriage duration or childcare responsibilities. 3) Non-privileged adult children. 4) Other support claimants. In a shortfall case, lower-ranking claimants are only served after higher-ranking ones are fully satisfied.

Question 9

Does child support change when my income changes?

Accepted Answer

Yes, a significant change in income can justify an adjustment of support. Generally, an income change of more than 10% warrants recalculation. However, the adjustment must be actively claimed — it does not happen automatically. Both the obligor and the claimant can request a modification.

Question 10

Do I also have to pay support for adult children?

Accepted Answer

Yes, if the adult child is still in education or vocational training, there is generally an obligation to pay support. Adult children are classified in the 18+ age group of the Düsseldorf Table. Unlike minors, both parents are proportionally liable for cash support based on their income. Self-retention for adult children is significantly higher at €1,750 compared to minors.

Guide: Child Support Calculator

Calculate Child Support 2026: Düsseldorf Table & Calculator

Düsseldorf Table 2026: All Amounts & Income Groups

Self-Retention in Child Support: How Much Do I Keep?

Shortfall in Child Support: What Happens When Income Is Insufficient?

Spousal Support After Divorce: Calculation, Duration & Exceptions

Child Benefit and Support: How Child Benefit Is Offset