Child Maintenance Demand Letter: Free Template and What to Include

If you need to formally request payment of outstanding child maintenance, a written letter is the recommended first step — it creates a clear record and shows you're pursuing the matter formally. Below is what a strong child maintenance demand should include.

What this letter needs to cover

• Identify the children involved
• Set out the proposed maintenance amount and basis of calculation (Child Maintenance Service formula based on gross weekly income)
• Reference the Child Support Act 1991 obligation to maintain qualifying children
• Propose a Family Based Arrangement and request a written response
• Warn that a CMS application may follow

Your options for pursuing unpaid child maintenance

Whether your arrangement is through the Child Maintenance Service or a private agreement, unpaid maintenance can be pursued formally — but the correct route depends on which type of arrangement you have. A clear written demand is often a useful first step regardless, creating a record before further formal action if needed.

What to include before you send it

• The agreed maintenance amount and payment schedule
• The specific missed payments, with dates and amounts
• The total arrears owed
• A clear deadline for payment before further action is taken

What happens if payment still doesn't follow

If you have a Child Maintenance Service arrangement, they have their own enforcement powers, including deductions from earnings or benefits, and ultimately court action. Private (family-based) arrangements are not legally binding, so you may choose to apply to the CMS instead going forward for stronger enforcement options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I ask the CMS to take over a private arrangement that's broken down?
Yes — you can apply to the CMS at any point if a private arrangement isn't working, and they'll assess and arrange collection going forward.

Do arrears stop accumulating if the paying parent claims they can't afford it?
No — arrears continue to accrue regardless, though the CMS or court can take financial circumstances into account when arranging repayment of arrears.

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Postcode]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Other Parent's Name]
[Address]
[Postcode]
[Date]

Dear [Name],

Subject: Child maintenance for [Child's Name(s)]

I am writing about child maintenance for our [child / children], [Name(s) and date(s) of birth].

Under the Child Support Act 1991, both parents must contribute to the cost of supporting their children.

I would like us to agree a family-based arrangement. Using the Child Maintenance Service calculator, which is based on your gross weekly income of about £[amount], the amount would be £[amount] a week. I propose that you pay £[amount] a month by standing order on the [day] of each month, starting on [Date]. I will send you my bank details once we agree.

Please reply in writing by [Date, e.g. 14 days from this letter] to agree, or to suggest a different amount.

If we cannot agree, I will apply to the Child Maintenance Service, which can work out, collect and enforce payments.

Yours sincerely,

[Your Signature]
[Your Printed Name]