Separation budget calculator
Written by James Whitfield · Last reviewed 29 October 2026
List what comes in and goes out each month to see what is left. Child Benefit fills in from the number of children (£27.05 a week for the eldest and £17.90 for each other child in 2026/27). Child maintenance you receive does not reduce Universal Credit.
A budget, not a benefits assessment. Check what you can claim with the single parent benefits calculator and the Universal Credit calculator, then enter the result here.
Getting the figures right
Use monthly amounts. For weekly amounts, multiply by 52 and divide by 12; Child Benefit is filled in that way.
Universal Credit depends on your income, rent and children. Work it out with the Universal Credit or single parent calculator and enter the result here; this planner does not assess benefits.
As the only adult at home you may get 25% off your Council Tax, and you may qualify for Council Tax Reduction.
Sorting out your money after separating?
The Family Money Pack brings together Child Benefit, Universal Credit, childcare support and a practical checklist for parents. £4.99, one-off.
See the Family Money PackQuestions
Does child maintenance count as income for Universal Credit?
No. Child maintenance you receive does not affect Universal Credit.
Is my budget saved?
No. It runs only in your browser; download the CSV if you want a copy.
Sources
- GOV.UK: Universal Credit if you have children (updated 20 October 2026) (checked 29 October 2026)
- GOV.UK: Child Benefit rates (checked 29 October 2026)
- GOV.UK: Council Tax, who has to pay (checked 29 October 2026)
Child maintenance hub · Child maintenance calculator · Benefits after separation