Many parents and young adults in The Hague are unaware of the maintenance obligation that applies to children between 18 and 21 years. Although children become legally of majority at age 18, the parents' maintenance obligation does not end immediately. In this article, you will discover everything about the conditions, rights and obligations regarding child support for young adults in The Hague.
What does the maintenance obligation 18-21 years entail?
The maintenance obligation 18-21 years is regulated in Article 1:395a of the Dutch Civil Code. Parents must contribute to the costs of living and study of their adult children up to age 21. At the District Court The Hague, Prins Clauslaan 60, many of these cases are handled.
This obligation applies regardless of whether parents are married, living separately or never had a relationship. Adoptive parents and acknowledging parents are also obligated up to age 21.
Legal basis: Article 1:395a CC
Article 1:395a CC states that the maintenance obligation continues until age 21, if the child needs maintenance and the parents have sufficient financial capacity. There is no difference between 18-21 year olds and younger children.
Conditions for maintenance obligation 18-21 years in The Hague
Three essential conditions must be met for a maintenance contribution:
1. Age 18 to 21 years
The obligation applies only between 18 and 21 years. At age 21, it ends automatically, except in cases of special agreements or circumstances. For advice in The Hague: Legal Aid Office The Hague, Lutherse Burgwal 10.
2. Child's need for maintenance
The child must have a genuine need for maintenance and not be able to support itself. The assessment includes:
- Housing, food and clothing
- Study expenses (books, materials)
- Care and insurance
- Own income (part-time job, DUO funding)
- Child's savings
Part-time jobs or student financing do not exclude need; the court looks at the overall picture.
3. Parents' financial capacity
Parents only pay what they can afford. Financial capacity depends on:
- Net salary
- Savings and assets
- Fixed expenses and other maintenance
- New family
- Rent or mortgage
If there is insufficient financial capacity, the contribution is reduced or terminated.
Study and maintenance obligation The Hague
Must a child study to qualify for maintenance? The answer is nuanced:
Obligation to study?
There is no study obligation between 18-21 years. However, working or deliberately not studying may reduce the need. Judges in The Hague decide whether the child can provide for itself.
Approved studies
All serious studies qualify:
- MBO level 3/4
- HBO and university bachelor's degrees
- Full-time, part-time or dual tracks
Good progress is crucial; otherwise, the contribution may stop.
How high is the maintenance contribution?
No standard amount; it depends on the situation. Judges use Nibud or Tremanorms.
Calculation methods
Typical estimates per month:
| Cost item | Average per month |
|---|---|
| Living expenses | € 220 - € 360 |
| Study materials | € 60 - € 160 |
| Health insurance | € 125 - € 155 |
| Other pocket money | € 100 - € 250 |
For personal calculations: Consult the Legal Aid Office The Hague or initiate proceedings at the District Court The Hague.
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