Hi everyone

My husband left the family home a couple of weeks ago. It seems now I am having to face the reality of going it alone and will have to take a deep breath and sort out a few things.

He says he will continue to pay the mortgage, bills etc which leaves me paying for food, clubs, clothing, car etc. He earns 6 times what I do. We have 3 children (one of whom has just turned 18 and is a step daughter). I have looked into various things I may be able to claim for like council tax relief and extra tax credits but am not sure what I need to include for the purpose of household income. Anyone out there familiar with such things, it's all new to me.

Hi there

Can't help you with the benefits side of things, but if his earnings are so substantially more than yours you need to consider interim spousal maintenance while you sort things out, which is calulated on your needs and his ability to pay.

I suggest you take legal advice to talk through your options.

Amanda

Hi Lifeistough,

I'm in similar position 3 children,eldest 19, ex earns 8 x my salary. I.ve been able to claim child and working tax credits as I work at least 16 hrs a week. Maintenance payments are NOT included when they work out you tax credits awards. My ex has refused to pay SM but does pay a bit more than csa amounts for maintenance. If your children are over 16 and in f/t education, they may be able to claim EMA. Hope this helps a little.

Jenny