What benefits am I entitled to as a single parent?
January 22, 2022 | 30,00 EUR | answered by Alwin Vollmann
Dear lawyer,
My name is Albrecht Ehrig and I am a single father of two children aged 8 and 10. Since my divorce a year ago, I have been facing the challenge of providing for my children on my own while also securing my livelihood. I work part-time and earn very little money.
My main concern is to find out what benefits are available to me as a single parent in order to adequately provide for my children. I am worried that my income may not be enough to meet my children's needs, especially in terms of education, health, and leisure activities.
I have heard about various benefits such as the child benefit, child support advance, and the education and participation package, but I am unsure if I qualify for them and how to apply for these benefits. I also wonder if there are any other support options available to me as a single father to ease the financial burden.
Could you please explain in detail what specific benefits I am entitled to as a single parent, how I can apply for them, and if there are any other support options available to me? I would greatly appreciate your assistance in this difficult situation.
Sincerely,
Albrecht Ehrig
Dear Mr. Ehrig,
Thank you for your inquiry and for trusting in my expertise as a lawyer specializing in social law. As a single father of two children, you are indeed entitled to various financial support options to ensure the care and well-being of your children.
First and foremost, as a single parent, you are generally entitled to child benefit. Child benefit is a benefit provided by the Federal Ministry for Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth to support families with low income. To receive child benefit, you must meet certain requirements, such as having a certain minimum income and receiving child benefit for your children. You can apply for child benefit at the relevant family benefits office.
Furthermore, you may also be eligible for maintenance advance payments. This is a service provided by the youth welfare office, paid when the other parent does not pay or only pays insufficient maintenance. Maintenance advance payments are usually paid until the child reaches the age of 12. Again, you can apply for maintenance advance payments at your local youth welfare office.
In addition to child benefit and maintenance advance payments, you also have the option to take advantage of the education and participation package. This package includes benefits such as subsidies for school trips, educational support, school lunches, or membership fees for sports clubs. Once again, you should contact your local job center or social welfare office to apply for these benefits.
There are also other support options available to you as a single father, such as counseling and support from family centers, Caritas, or other non-profit organizations. These institutions often provide counseling, assistance with applications, and support in difficult life situations.
Overall, there are a variety of support options available to you as a single father to ease the financial burden and adequately care for your children. Do not hesitate to apply for the various benefits and seek advice to receive the best possible support.
I hope this information is helpful to you and I am available for any further questions you may have.
Best regards,
Alwin Vollmann, Lawyer
