Self-support reserve (Selbstbehalt)

The Düsseldorfer Tabelle (Düsseldorf Table) specifies the Selbstbehalte (self-support reserve amounts). Their amount depends on to whom maintenance is owed—such as minor children, adult children, or a spouse—and whether the person liable for maintenance is employed. If the income remaining after the deduction of the Selbstbehalt is insufficient to cover all claims, a case of insufficient funds (Mangelfall) exists; in such cases, the maintenance amounts are reduced (§ 1603 BGB).

^¹Note: This definition is for general orientation only and does not replace legal advice for your case.