Can alimony be altered or revoked?

In California, alimony—also known as spousal support—can be altered or revoked. This is usually the case when a substantial change in circumstances has occurred, such as when one spouse loses their job or if the recipient of the alimony remarries or begins to cohabitate with another person. The court may issue a new judgment that reduces or terminates support completely. In California, a court may modify or terminate an alimony order if both parties agree to it. This happens when the receiving spouse and the paying spouse agree that an adjustment needs to be made, and they submit a written agreement to the court to amend the existing order. The court must approve the agreement before it is legally binding. The court can also modify alimony on its own when a significant change in circumstances has occurred. For example, the court might change the amount of alimony paid if the paying spouse experiences a significant drop in income or if the receiving spouse begins to earn significantly more income. If the paying spouse becomes ill or disabled, or if the recipients’ circumstances change in a way that they can now support themselves, the court can also modify or terminate the alimony order. In either situation, either party can file a motion with the court to modify the alimony order. This motion must be served with the other party and the court. The court then schedules a hearing to consider the motion. The court will determine whether a change in circumstances has taken place and decide whether it is fair to alter or terminate the alimony order.

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Can alimony be altered or revoked?

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