Application for Maintenance of Parents / Senior Citizens

The Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007 is the governing statute. It provides a mechanism for parents and senior citizens to claim maintenance from their children or relatives. The Act applies throughout India except Jammu and Kashmir.

Applications are filed before the Maintenance Tribunal constituted under the Act. The tribunal is typically at the sub-divisional level. For online information, visit the National Portal for Senior Citizens (https://seniorcitizens.nic.in).

The process begins with filing an application before the Maintenance Tribunal. The tribunal will issue notice to the children/relatives, hear both parties, and pass an order for monthly maintenance. If the order is not complied with, the tribunal can recover the amount as arrears of land revenue.

The application is typically made in Form I as prescribed under the Act. Supporting documents include proof of age, relationship with the respondent, income details, and evidence of neglect or refusal to maintain.

A parent or senior citizen (aged 60 years or above) who is unable to maintain themselves from their own earnings or property is eligible. The child or relative must have sufficient means to provide maintenance.

The Act does not prescribe a fixed timeline. The tribunal is expected to dispose of the application expeditiously. The process involves notice, hearing, and order. No specific duration can be guaranteed.