Petition · Department for Work and Pensions
Cap income used to calculate Child Maintenance to Minimum Wage over a 40hr week
Open for signatures
1,108 signatures
What the petition asks
We call on the UK Government to introduce a fair and sustainable cap on the income figure used to calculate CMS payments. We propose that the maximum weekly income considered for CMS assessments be limited to the equivalent of the National Minimum Wage multiplied by a 40-hour working week.
We believe this cap would ensure that maintenance obligations are calculated based on a reasonable and widely understood benchmark of full-time work. Those who attempt to improve their situation by working additional hours or taking on extra employment may find themselves penalised in subsequent assessments, as increased earnings can lead directly to higher maintenance payments.
By capping the income used in calculations in line with minimum wage and a standard working week, we believe the system would become fairer and more predictable.
By capping the income used in calculations in line with minimum wage and a standard working week, we believe the system would become fairer and more predictable.
Timeline
| 8 May 2026 | Petition opened for signatures |
Key facts
Signatures
1,108
Status
Open for signatures
Department
Department for Work and Pensions
Opened
8 May 2026
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Source: the official petition page. Last checked 26 Jul 2026.