Alimony or spousal maintenance is one of the major concerns that couples worry about during a divorce. This financial assistance aids lower-income spouses in maintaining a reasonable standard of living after a divorce. Spouses with higher incomes will typically bear the responsibility of providing monetary support to their former partners.
If you are going through a divorce, understanding how alimony works can help you plan for your financial future.
Factors that the courts consider
Either spouse can file for spousal maintenance during a divorce. The judge considers these factors to determine is an alimony order is appropriate, such as:
- The incomes of both spouses
- The marital property division
- The financial resources of each spouse
- The amount of money the alimony-seeking spouse requests
- The tax implications of paying or receiving maintenance
Once the judge deems the maintenance is appropriate, they move on to deciding on the spousal support amount.
Types of alimony
Depending on the circumstances of a couple, a judge may award different types of alimony. One is temporary alimony which can provide financial support during the divorce proceedings and last for as long as the judge deems it necessary.
The judge may also award a longer-term or permanent alimony after reviewing the factors surrounding a couple’s marriage. This enforces the high-earning spouse to pay a defined amount to their ex-partner for a specific period.
Couples may also request to modify the terms if substantial changes occur in their lives later on, such as remarriage, retirement, or a sudden income loss.
Settling spousal maintenance carefully
Navigating the alimony process can be difficult. Couples tend to treat this matter as a financial burden and a continued emotional entanglement.
If you or your spouse requests alimony, a skilled divorce attorney can offer guidance on the process. They can clarify your rights and provide personalized options to help you protect your finances.