Providing for your child is both a legal responsibility and a profound moral duty. In the UK, the Child Maintenance Service (CMS) facilitates this, and its rules are updated regularly. For Muslim parents, this responsibility carries the added weight of being a fundamental right (Haqq) of the child ordained by Islamic law. This guide for 2026 explains the key changes to the UK system, how to calculate maintenance, and why fulfilling this duty is central to your faith and your child's well-being. Key Changes in the Child Maintenance System for 2026 The UK government periodically reviews CMS rules to ensure fairness and effectiveness. For 2026, parents should be aware of the following key updates based on current policy directions: Increased Earning Thresholds: The gross weekly income thresholds used in the calculation formula are adjusted annually for inflation. For 2026, expect a rise from the 2024/25 thresholds (£1,000 weekly for the basic rate, up to £3,000 for the reduced rate). Always check the latest figures on the GOV.UK website. Revised Benefit and Pension Income Calculations: The way certain benefits and pension income are treated in the calculation may be subject to review, potentially affecting non-resident parents who are retirees or on specific allowances. Enhanced Enforcement Powers: The CMS continues to strengthen its enforcement toolkit. This can include more frequent use of Deduction from Earnings Orders (DEOs), passport confiscation, and ultimately, court action for persistent non-payment. Focus on Direct Pay: The CMS strongly encourages the Direct Pay arrangement, where parents manage payments themselves. The Collect & Pay service (where CMS collects and passes on money) now incurs higher collection fees for the paying parent (20% on top) and a deduction fee for the receiving parent (4%). Digital Service Emphasis: The move towards full digital management of your CMS case continues, making it crucial to keep your online account details secure and up-to-date. How Child Maintenance is Calculated (2026 Rules) The CMS uses a standard formula based on the paying parent's gross (before tax) income. Below is a simplified guide. The exact calculation should be done using the official CMS calculator on GOV.UK. Step 1: Determine Gross Weekly Income This includes salary, bonuses, pension income, and most benefits. Step 2: Apply the 2026 Rate Bands (Illustrative - Confirm on GOV.UK) Basic Rate: For gross weekly income between £1,050 and £3,000 (approx.). Percentage applied: 12% for one child, 16% for two children, 19% for three or more children. Reduced Rate: For gross weekly income between £1,050 and £200 (approx.). A lower, tapering percentage applies, plus a flat-rate element. Flat Rate: For gross weekly income below £200 (approx.) or if the parent is on certain benefits (e.g., Income Support). £7 per week. Nil Rate: If gross weekly income is below £100 (approx.) or in specific circumstances like being a full-time student under 19. Step 3: Adjustments The calculation is adjusted for: Overnight Stays: If the child stays with the paying parent for 52 to 103 nights a year, a reduction (shared care) applies. For 104 nights or more, a different, larger reduction is applied. Other Children: The paying parent's income is reduced to account for other dependent children living with them. Calculation Scenarios for 2026 (Illustrative) Scenario 1: Basic Rate Ahmed has one child. He does not live with them. His gross weekly income is £1,200. Calculation: £1,200 x 12% = £144 per week. Scenario 2: Shared Care (Overnight Stays) Sarah's child stays with their father, Imran, for 60 nights a year. Imran's gross weekly income is £800 for their two children together. Base Calculation: £800 x 16% = £128 per week. Shared Care Reduction (60 nights): A reduction of 1/7th applies. Final Weekly Amount: £128 - £18.29 = £109.71 per week. Scenario 3: Flat Rate Yusuf is a full-time university student with no income. He has one child. Payment: He pays the flat rate of £7 per week. The Islamic Perspective: Child Maintenance as a Fundamental Haqq In Islam, providing for your children is not merely a legal formality. It is a compelling right (Haqq) of the child upon the parent, a duty that continues until the child reaches adulthood. A Divine Obligation: The Quran and Sunnah emphasise the father's responsibility to provide sustenance (nafaqah) for his children. This is considered an act of worship and piety. The Mother's Role: While the primary financial responsibility rests with the father (provided he is able), the mother's role in care and upbringing is equally honoured and valued. Her contribution is immense and spiritual. Beyond the Minimum: The Islamic ethic encourages providing generously according to one's means, ensuring the child's dignity, proper education, and holistic well-being, not just the bare minimum. Consequences of Neglect: Neglecting this duty is considered a grave sin. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "It is sufficient sin for a man that he neglects those whom he is responsible to feed." (Sunan Abi Dawud). A Purification of Wealth: Spending on your children is seen as a means of purifying your wealth and earning ongoing reward (Sadaqah Jariyah), especially when spent on their religious and worldly education. Aligning UK Law with Islamic Duty: Engaging fairly and proactively with the CMS process is a way to fulfil this Islamic obligation in a structured, transparent manner. It removes conflict and ensures the child's right is met consistently, bringing peace of mind and spiritual fulfilment. Action Steps for Parents in 2026 Use the Official Calculator: Always use the latest GOV.UK CMS calculator for an accurate figure. Prioritise Direct Pay: If safe and possible, agree on Direct Pay to avoid CMS fees and maintain a cooperative parenting relationship. Keep Records: Maintain clear records of all payments and communications. Update CMS Promptly: Inform the CMS immediately of any major change in income, address, or living arrangements. Seek Islamic Guidance: If in dispute, consult both your legal advisor and a knowledgeable Islamic scholar to find a solution that satisfies both your legal and religious duties. Fulfilling your child's right to maintenance is a cornerstone of responsible parenthood. By understanding the 2026 UK system and embracing it as an avenue to fulfil a sacred Islamic duty, you secure your child's future in this world and honour your commitment to your faith. Navigating child maintenance can be complex, but you don't have to do it alone. 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