How is Spousal Support Determined? What if My Partner Makes More Money Than Me?

Navigating Spousal Support Can Be Difficult

Learn what factors the courts use to determine who is eligible for spousal support after a divorce. Choose from any of the topics below.

• What is Spousal Support?
• How Judges Decide Alimony Amounts in Arizona
• If My Spouse Makes More Money Than Me, Can I Get Alimony?
• What is the Formula for Calculating Spousal Support?
• 5 Frequently Asked Questions About Spousal Support
• Speak With a Legal Paraprofessional Spousal Support

What is Spousal Support?

Spousal support, also known as alimony or maintenance, is the financial support one spouse pays the other after a divorce.

It is intended to help the receiving spouse maintain their standard of living during and after the divorce.

Spousal support may sometimes be awarded in a lump sum or periodic payments.

Spousal support can be modified or terminated when circumstances change; for example, if either party remarries or in cases of extreme hardship.

How Judges Decide Alimony Amounts in Arizona

In Arizona, judges determine alimony amounts on a case-by-case basis.

Factors that will be considered include the duration of the marriage, the age and health of each spouse, the standard of living established during the marriage, whether one spouse sacrificed career opportunities for the benefit of the other, and any other relevant factors.

Judges must also consider spouses’ income and potential earning capacity when determining alimony amounts. In some cases, judges may consider additional items such as family assets, debts, or property division agreements.

Ultimately, judges will strive to create an equitable arrangement that provides financial security for both parties after the dissolution of their

If My Spouse Makes More Money than Me, Can I Get Alimony?

In Arizona, a spouse can receive alimony if their spouse makes more money than them.

Alimony is a court-ordered payment made by one spouse to the other to help the receiving spouse maintain their standard of living during and after a divorce. The court determines the amount and duration of alimony payments based on several factors, such as earning capacity and financial need.

Additionally, Arizona courts may consider any existing prenuptial or postnuptial agreements when determining alimony. Ultimately, courts will consider all relevant facts when determining whether to award alimony and how much should be paid.

What is the Formula for Calculating Spousal Support?

The formula for calculating spousal support in Arizona is based on several factors, including the length of the marriage, each spouse’s income, and their respective financial obligations.

Generally speaking, the longer the marriage lasts, the higher the spousal support amount may be.

When calculating spousal support, the court will also consider other factors, such as each partner’s education level, age, health condition, and earning capacity. Depending on the situation, either party may be ordered to pay support or agree to an arrangement that works best for them.

Ultimately, it is up to a judge to determine how much support will be paid and for how long.

Top 5 Most Frequently Asked Questions About Spousal Support

How long does spousal support last in Arizona?

The length of spousal support in Arizona is determined by several factors, including the length of the marriage, the earning capacity of each spouse, and the standard of living established during the marriage.

In most cases, spousal support is ordered for a specific period of time, after which it will end.

Can spousal support be modified in Arizona?

Yes, spousal support can be modified if circumstances change, such as a change in income or job status, or if the recipient spouse gets remarried.

Can spousal support be terminated in Arizona?

Yes, spousal support in Arizona can be terminated if the recipient spouse remarries or if there is a significant change in circumstances, such as a change in income or job status.

What happens if a spouse fails to pay spousal support in Arizona?

If a spouse fails to pay spousal support in Arizona, the recipient spouse can ask the court to enforce the support order. This may include wage garnishment, property liens, or other enforcement actions.

Is spousal support tax-deductible in Arizona?

Under federal tax law, the person paying spousal support can deduct the payments from their taxable income, while the recipient must report the payments as taxable income.