Alimony: How Much You May Be Eligible For

Alimony, also known as spousal support or maintenance, is a legal obligation for one spouse to provide financial support to the other after a divorce or separation. The reason for spousal support is to help the former partner maintain the standard of living they enjoyed during the marriage. However, determining how much alimony one spouse may be eligible for can be complex. Numerous factors play a role when determining the amount of alimony one receives. These factors include:

Income Disparity

One of the main factors when determining spousal maintenance is income disparity. When one partner makes significantly more income than the other, the court may award alimony to help close that financial gap. The duration and amount of the payments will depend on the extent of the disparity and the ability of the other partner to be self-supporting.

Length of the Marriage

The length of the marriage plays a role in alimony payments as well. The longer a couple is married and the more interdependent they become; the more likely spousal support payments will be awarded. Shorter marriages may still be eligible for alimony, but it may be less and shorter in duration.

Standard of Living During the Marriage

The standard of living that each spouse enjoys during the marriage is considered. If one spouse experiences a lower standard of living after a divorce, the higher-earning spouse may be required to pay alimony. This is to help them maintain their standard of living post-marriage.

Financial Needs and Obligations

The financial obligations of each spouse are taken into consideration when awarding spousal support. Obligations like child support, outstanding debts, and healthcare costs are some of the factors that are considered. The court will assess these things to help ensure that both spouses can meet their financial obligations.

Age and Health

The age and health of both spouses can also influence alimony determinations. If the receiving spouse has health issues or is of an age where finding employment may be challenging, the court may award alimony to provide necessary financial support. Similarly, if the paying spouse is nearing retirement age, the court may consider this when determining the duration and amount of alimony.