What is alimony?

Alimony, also known as spousal support, is a court-ordered payment one ex-spouse makes to another. It is usually paid every month and can be paid for a number of years or in one lump sum. In Kansas, alimony is determined on a case-by-case basis. The court will consider a variety of factors when deciding if an alimony award is appropriate and the amount of the award, such as the length of the marriage, the ages of the spouses, their respective levels of income and education, and the health of the spouses. The purpose of alimony is to allow a dependent spouse to maintain the same lifestyle he or she had during the marriage. Alimony can also help the dependent spouse pursue career objectives and obtain an education or training to become self-supporting. In Kansas, alimony can be modified or terminated if the paying spouse becomes disabled, loses employment, or if the recipient spouse remarries or begins to earn an income. Alimony should not be confused with child support, which is a payment made to support a dependent child of the marriage, rather than the spouse. It is important to understand the difference between alimony and child support, and what options are available to you in Kansas when it comes to alimony. An experienced attorney can help answer any questions you may have about alimony and support your rights.

Related FAQs

Does alimony have to be paid if the payor is unemployed?
Can alimony be increased if the payor's income increases?
Does alimony have to be included in a divorce settlement?
Can alimony be awarded to a spouse who has remarried?
Can alimony be waived in a divorce settlement?
Is alimony paid in perpetuity or for a fixed period of time?
Can a court award alimony to both spouses in a divorce?
How long is alimony typically paid?
Are alimony payments taxable to the payor in some states?
Is alimony considered marital income?

What is alimony?

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