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Maintenance crisis in Bremen: 69 million euros remain unaffordable!
The cities of Bremen and Bremerhaven are struggling with maintenance debts of 69 million euros. Over 13,000 children in need need support.
Maintenance crisis in Bremen: 69 million euros remain unaffordable!
There are currently major challenges in collecting maintenance in Bremen and Bremerhaven, reports butenunbinnen. The public sector faces an estimated €69 million in unpaid debts due to separated parents. There are more than 13,000 children in the region who are dependent on advance maintenance payments. This is often granted if the other parent does not meet their payment obligation.
Since 2017, maintenance advances have been granted to families up to their 18th birthday; previously this was only possible up to their 12th birthday. The number of children benefiting from this support has increased from 370,000 to almost 780,000, which represents a significant increase. Interestingly, 91 percent of these children live with their mothers, while in 90 percent of cases the fathers are obliged to pay, as tagesschau supports.
Repayment challenges
The repayment rate in Bremen and Bremerhaven is disappointing: the money is only recovered in a good ten percent of cases. For comparison: In Bavaria this rate is twice as high. While the state tries to collect the debts in 13 percent of cases, the authorities in Bremen have only filed almost 600 lawsuits in the last two years. The question arises as to why this is the case. Statistics show that the reasons for non-payment of maintenance debts, mostly by men, are not adequately recorded.
Another report shows that the other parent often does not have sufficient income to pay maintenance. The living situation of single parents is often tense because irregular payment receipts cause additional difficulties. Against the background of these challenges, Federal Minister for Family Affairs Giffey is planning new statistics in order to gain more clarity about the situation of non-paying parents, as can be found on the website of the Family Ministry.
The amount of the maintenance advance
The financial aid is differentiated. From January 1, 2025, the maintenance advance for different age groups will be:
| Age of the child | Monthly maintenance advance |
|---|---|
| 0 to 5 years | up to 227 euros |
| 6 to 11 years | up to 299 euros |
| 12 to 17 years | up to 394 euros |
Although there is no income limit for single parents, maintenance does not have to be determined by a court decision. State authorities can claim the other parent for payment in the amount of the advance maintenance if the other parent is financially capable.
The situation in Bremen and Bremerhaven highlights the difficulties that single-parent families face when it comes to financial support and collecting maintenance. Despite legal regulations and financial aid, the state is faced with major challenges.