Germany proposes cutting child support allowance age limit

In Germany, a vital financial support system exists for single parents facing non-payment of child support from the other parent. The state provides an allowance known as Unterhaltsvorschuss to approximately 1.7 million single-parent households.

Currently, single parents can receive this support until their child turns 18. However, the government, citing annual costs exceeding three billion euros with only 18% recovered from non-paying parents, is proposing a change. Family Minister Karin Prien of the CDU party advocates for ending the allowance when the child reaches 16 years of age.

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I would suddenly be short nearly 800 euros monthly.

This proposed measure has drawn criticism from Delia Keller, an activist, designer, and single mother. Keller argues that reducing the age limit is a misguided austerity measure that will negatively affect families. She believes that cutting off support prematurely ignores the financial realities many single-parent households face as their children approach adulthood.

The current system aims to bridge the financial gap left by absent or non-contributing parents, ensuring children receive a baseline level of financial support. The debate highlights a tension between the state's fiscal responsibilities and the welfare of single-parent families, with proposed cost-saving measures potentially impacting vulnerable populations.

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Too expensive, says Family Minister Karin Prien of the CDU.