Alimony & Support
5 frequently asked questions with detailed answers
Alimony calculations vary by state but typically consider: length of marriage, each spouse's income and earning capacity, standard of living during marriage, age and health of both parties, contributions to the other's career or education, and custody arrangements. Some states have formulas, while others leave it to judicial discretion.
Alimony duration depends on marriage length and type of alimony. Short marriages (under 10 years) may receive temporary alimony for a few months to years. Longer marriages may qualify for longer-term or permanent alimony. Rehabilitative alimony lasts until the receiving spouse becomes self-supporting. Alimony typically ends upon remarriage or death.
Yes, alimony can usually be modified if there's a significant change in circumstances, such as job loss, serious illness, retirement, or the receiving spouse's increased income or cohabitation. The requesting party must petition the court. Some agreements include non-modification clauses that limit changes.
For divorces finalized after December 31, 2018, alimony is no longer tax-deductible for the payer or taxable income for the recipient under federal law. For divorces finalized before 2019, the old rules (deductible for payer, taxable for recipient) may still apply unless the agreement was modified.
Alimony (spousal support) is paid from one spouse to another to maintain their standard of living after divorce. Child support is paid to help cover children's expenses and is based on custody arrangements, income, and state guidelines. Child support continues until children reach adulthood; alimony terms vary.