Many parents and young adults in Utrecht do not know that the maintenance obligation for children aged 18 to 21 continues to apply. Even after reaching the age of majority at 18, this obligation does not end immediately. This article explains the rules, including local institutions such as the Rechtbank Midden-Nederland.
What does the maintenance obligation for 18-21 years entail?
According to Article 1:395a of the Dutch Civil Code, parents must contribute to the living expenses and studies of children up to 21 years of age. This applies to married, divorced or cohabiting parents, including adoptive and acknowledging parents in Utrecht and surrounding areas.
Statutory basis: Article 1:395a CC
The obligation continues until 21 years if the child needs maintenance and the parents have sufficient capacity to pay. No difference between 18-21 and younger.
Conditions for maintenance in Utrecht
Three core conditions:
1. Age 18-21 years
Only between 18 and 21 years. At 21 years it stops automatically, except in special cases or agreements.
2. Need for maintenance
The child must not be able to make ends meet independently. Assessment includes:
- Housing, food, clothing
- Studies (books, tuition fees)
- Health insurance
- Part-time job income or DUO funding
- Savings
Additional earnings do not negate everything; the total situation counts, also in the Utrecht context.
3. Parental capacity to pay
Only if parents can afford it, based on:
- Net salary
- Assets
- Fixed expenses, other children
- New family, rent in Utrecht
No capacity to pay? Contribution zero or lower.
Studies and obligation in Utrecht
Must the child study? Not mandatory, but working or not studying may reduce the contribution.
Proper studies
- MBO, HBO, WO
- Full-time/part-time
Seriously pursue; otherwise termination possible. Local Utrecht educational institutions count.
How high is the contribution?
No fixed rate; dependent on the facts. Use Nibud or Tremanorms.
Guideline amounts
| Cost item | Monthly (Utrecht) |
|---|---|
| Living expenses | €220 - €370 |
| Studies (excl. tuition fees) | €60 - €160 |
| Health insurance | €125 - €155 |
| Pocket-/travel expenses | €100 - €200 |
| Total indication | €500 - €900 |
Practice in Utrecht: Where to go?
For advice or proceedings:
- Rechtbank Midden-Nederland: Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1, Utrecht. Judges here handle local cases on maintenance obligations.
- Juridisch Loket Utrecht: Catharijnesingel 55. Free initial advice for low income.
Consult a lawyer for personal calculation. In Utrecht, housing costs are rising, which affects capacity to pay.