Can we arrange child maintenance between ourselves?
The ideal situation would be that you would agree with the other parent how much you will pay them. This may, for example, be the amount stated on the child maintenance calculator (see above). You may also decide to offer additional payments on top of your obligation for example for extracurricular activities, school uniform, school trips, day to daycare, school fees etc.
However, if you cannot reach a private arrangement, then you can make an application through the CMS. The child must be under the age of 16 or under 20 if they are in approved education or training to be applicable for a CMS assessment.