BEHIND THE NUMBERS
How this calculation works
Cost share = (housing + bills + food) ÷ people + individual extra cost. Income share = take-home income × chosen percentage ÷ 100. The selected proposal is capped at max(income − protected income, 0). Weekly equivalent = monthly proposal × 12 ÷ 52.
Worked example
Shared costs total £1,600. One of four shares is £400, below the £1,300 available after protecting £300. The separate 20% income comparison is £320.
Example result: £400.00
Choose which costs to share
Only include costs you agree should be shared. If food is bought separately, leave shared food at zero and use the individual extra-cost field only where appropriate.
Check affordability before agreeing
The result preserves the amount you selected for personal needs. It also shows the uncapped proposal so that the effect of that choice stays visible.
Assumptions and rounding
- All costs and income refer to the same month.
- The protected amount is user-chosen, not an official allowance.
Questions about this calculator
Is 20% a recommended amount?
No. It is an editable example, not a prescribed rate.
Does this account for benefit deductions?
No. Changes in household circumstances can affect support; check entitlement separately before agreeing a payment.