underholdsbidrag

Underholdsbidrag refers to financial support payments mandated by Danish law, typically made by one parent to another for the care of their children following separation or divorce. These payments are calculated based on both parents' financial situations and the children's needs. The system is designed to ensure that children maintain a standard of living similar to what they would have experienced if their parents had remained together.

Under Danish law, there are standard calculation guidelines for determining the amount of underholdsbidrag, taking into account the paying parent's income, the number of children, and their age. The Ministry of Social Affairs and Interior sets these guidelines. For children under 18, the contribution is normally paid to the parent with whom the child lives.

The Danish State Administration (Statsforvaltningen) can help determine the appropriate amount if parents disagree. Underholdsbidrag is typically adjusted annually based on the consumer price index and changes in the paying parent's income. The payments continue until the child turns 18 unless special circumstances extend the obligation, such as when the child is pursuing education.

The enforcement of underholdsbidrag can involve intervention from the state if payments are not made as required, reflecting the priority given to children's financial security in Danish legislation.