Question 1

How is child support calculated?

Accepted Answer

Child support is calculated using the indicative scale from the Ministry of Justice. This scale takes into account the paying parent's income after deducting a minimum living allowance (equivalent to RSA, approximately €607 in 2026). A percentage is then applied based on the number of children and the type of visitation rights: 18% for 1 child, 15.5% per child for 2 children, 13.3% per child for 3 children, etc. The judge may deviate from this scale based on the specific needs of the children (schooling, health, activities) and the overall financial situation of the parents.

Question 2

Is child support mandatory?

Accepted Answer

Yes, child support is a legal obligation under Article 371-2 of the Civil Code. Each parent must contribute to the maintenance and education of the children in proportion to their resources and the child's needs. This obligation exists whether the parents are married, in a civil partnership, or cohabiting. Non-payment of child support for more than two months constitutes a criminal offense of family abandonment, punishable by 2 years imprisonment and a €15,000 fine (Article 227-3 of the Penal Code).

Question 3

Can child support amounts be modified?

Accepted Answer

Yes, child support amounts can be revised upward or downward in the event of a significant change in circumstances: major income variation, unemployment, birth of a new child, change in custody arrangement, new needs of the child (higher education, health issues). The revision request must be made to the family affairs judge. It is recommended to first attempt family mediation. The support amount can also be indexed to the INSEE consumer price index.

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