The threshold for supporting single-parent families who are not properly receiving child support will be significantly lowered. Starting October 29, the income requirement for the advance child support payment system will be abolished, allowing households previously excluded due to income criteria to apply for support if they meet other requirements.

Income Requirement Abolished Starting October 29

According to the government's announcement, 'Changes Taking Effect in the Second Half of 2026,' the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family will abolish the income requirement for the advance child support payment program for minor children of single-parent families starting October 29. The advance child support payment system is one in which, when a person obligated to pay child support fails to do so properly, the state pays a certain amount first and then recovers it from the child support debtor.

Applications Possible Regardless of Income... Support Determined Through Screening

The key change is the abolition of the income requirement. Previously, applicants had to meet certain income criteria to receive support, but after the system reform, income level itself will no longer be a determining factor. Accordingly, even if income exceeds the previous threshold, those raising minor children without receiving child support can undergo screening if they meet other support requirements.

The support payment is 200,000 won per month per minor child, and in principle, it is provided until the child turns 18. However, actual support is determined only if statutory requirements, such as non-payment of child support, are met.

Addressing Blind Spots Where Families Were Excluded Due to Income Criteria

This reform focuses on reducing blind spots where families fail to receive support solely due to income requirements despite not receiving child support. In particular, it is expected to address the problem where single-parent families had to bear the child support gap entirely on their own simply because their income slightly exceeded a certain threshold.

However, the abolition of the income requirement does not mean that all single-parent families will automatically receive 200,000 won per month. Factors such as whether they have minor children, the actual non-payment of child support, and application and screening requirements must be verified. Therefore, before applying, it is necessary to check the detailed eligibility criteria and required documents provided by relevant agencies.

The government aims to improve access to support for single-parent families not receiving child support through this reform and to reduce gaps that may arise in children's livelihood and upbringing.

Childcare and Care Systems Also Changing in Second Half of 2026

In the second half of 2026, care and childcare-related systems will also change alongside child support improvements. Following improvements to short-term parental leave and spousal leave systems, the support period for infertility treatment leave benefits will be expanded to four days starting November 27.

[This article is an informational content piece based on publicly released government materials. For details on actual eligibility, application methods, and payment timing, readers should check the latest guidance from relevant agencies and related laws at the time of implementation. AI assisted with organizing materials and structuring sentences in the writing of this article.]