When and how can I transfer the care allowance?

Since 2021, if the child allowance is transferred to one parent, the allowance for care, upbringing or education (care allowance) is automatically transferred as well.

This mainly affects parents who are separated.

A transfer may be considered if, for example:

• one parent pays no or insufficient maintenance, or
• the minor child is registered with only one parent.

The transfer is made in the child form.

Examples

Hans (12 years old) lives exclusively with his mother after the parents' separation.

Case 1: The father pays less than 75% of the maintenance owed.

The mother can apply for the full child allowance and the full care allowance.

Case 2: The father pays sufficient maintenance.

Then the mother can only apply for the care allowance if Hans is exclusively registered with her.