Süütoetus

Süütoetus is a Finnish term that translates to "child support" in English. It refers to the financial obligation of a parent to provide for the material needs of their child. This obligation arises regardless of whether the parents are married, divorced, or have never been in a relationship. The primary purpose of child support is to ensure that a child's living expenses, such as food, housing, clothing, healthcare, and education, are adequately covered, maintaining a reasonable standard of living for the child.

In Finland, child support is typically determined by agreement between the parents or, if an agreement cannot be reached, by a court order. The amount of child support is calculated based on several factors, including the child's needs, the paying parent's income and ability to pay, and the living arrangements of the child. The law aims to ensure that the child support awarded is fair and proportionate. Payment is usually made by the non-custodial parent to the custodial parent. The Finnish Social Insurance Institution, Kela, plays a role in the administration and enforcement of child support, including providing child maintenance assistance if the paying parent fails to meet their obligations. The concept of süütoetus underscores the legal and societal importance placed on the financial well-being of children in Finland.