Alimony, also known as spousal support, is money paid from one person to their former spouse after a divorce. Alimony payments can be set up in many different ways, such as temporary alimony, short-term alimony or long-term alimony.
But if you are being asked to pay – or if you believe you deserve to receive alimony payments from your ex – you may find yourself wondering how the court determines the monthly payments. This is often a point of contest for couples, so it is important to consider.
Financial details
The reality is that there are many different factors and financial details that the court has to consider. These could include:
- The debt that each person holds after the divorce
- Both spouses’ income levels and projected earnings moving forward
- If either person has access to other funds, such as savings or a trust fund
- How long the couple was married before splitting up
- The expected standard of living that each person has, potentially along with their children
- If any factors limit a person’s earning ability, such as having to take care of children or dealing with a disability or an illness
Every situation is unique, but the court will sometimes order alimony to help avoid financial hardship. If someone expected to be supported by their spouse and left the workforce to raise the children, for instance, they may need alimony after a divorce so that they can make ends meet while determining how to re-enter the workforce.
If you’re in this position, be sure you know exactly what rights you have and what legal steps to take.
