What is the difference between alimony and spousal support?

Alimony and spousal support are two different types of payments made during or after a divorce in North Carolina. Although they are similar, there are important differences between them. Alimony is the payment of money made from one former spouse to the other. This payment is typically intended to help one spouse maintain their lifestyle after the divorce. The payments may be temporary or may be permanent, depending on the circumstances. The court will consider the length of the marriage, the income of both spouses, the contributions to the marriage, and other factors to determine if alimony is appropriate. Spousal support, also known as spousal maintenance, is another type of payment made to a former spouse, but is based more on need than alimony payments. Spousal support is usually awarded to a spouse who is in need of financial assistance after a divorce. It is typically temporary, and the amount is determined by considering the former spouse’s potential earning capacity, their potential need for job training, the cost of basic living expenses, and other factors. Both alimony and spousal support are determined by the court in North Carolina, and are used to help one spouse support themselves after the divorce. Alimony payments are typically based on the contributions of both spouses to the marriage, while spousal support is based more on need.

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What is the difference between alimony and spousal support?

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