Child maintenance when a parent has rental income

Child maintenance when a parent has rental income

1. 1

   The standard calculation

   The CMS starts from the paying parent's gross income from HMRC records — wages, self-employment and pensions.

2. 2

   Is there rental income over £2,500 a year?

   YesEither parent can ask the CMS for a "variation" so the unearned income is added.

   NoRental income usually won't change the amount.
3. 3

   Ask for a variation

   Ask when you apply or after the amount is worked out. Give what you know about the income; the CMS can ask HMRC and the other parent.

4. 4

   Wait for the decision

   It can take up to 3 months for the payment amount to change.

   ⏱ Up to 3 months

5. !

   Diverted income

   Income moved to a partner or company to reduce maintenance can also be considered.

6. ✓

   Divorce is separate

   In a divorce, the court looks at the whole portfolio — see the divorce diagram.

Checked against official sources on 10 November 2026 · General information, not legal advice · landlordwala.com/diagrams/child-maintenance-rental-income