What is alimony?

Alimony is a form of financial support awarded to one spouse after a divorce. It is intended to help the receiving spouse maintain the lifestyle that they had during the marriage. In Arkansas, alimony is called “spousal maintenance” and is awarded by the court when one spouse is unable to provide for him or herself. In Arkansas, courts base the amount and duration of alimony payments on a number of factors, including the length of the marriage, the financial need of each spouse, the earning capacity of each spouse, and any other factors the court deems relevant. The court may even consider the fault of either spouse in the breakup of the marriage when deciding on alimony. When alimony is awarded, the paying spouse is usually obligated to make regular payments until the spouse receiving alimony obtains the skills and training they need to become financially independent. The court may even order the paying spouse to continue payments beyond that point if they deem it necessary. It’s important to remember that alimony is not a form of “revenge” or punishment. Its purpose is to provide financial stability and support to one spouse, usually for a short period of time. In Arkansas, alimony payments can be modified or terminated if there is a change in the financial needs or circumstances of either spouse.

Related FAQs

Does alimony stop if the recipient is living with a new partner?
How is alimony calculated?
Can an alimony award be modified if the recipient's income increases?
Is alimony considered a form of child support?
How are alimony payments affected if the payor's income increases?
Can alimony be awarded based on need after a long-term marriage?
Is alimony permanent or temporary?
What are the factors that are considered when awarding alimony?
Can alimony be waived in a divorce settlement?
Is alimony income taxable?

What is alimony?

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