What is alimony?

Alimony, also known as spousal support or maintenance, is an arrangement in which one spouse is required to provide financial support to the other during or after a divorce. In Washington, alimony is not an automatic right, nor is it guaranteed. The court will consider a variety of factors when determining whether alimony should be awarded, such as the length of the marriage, each spouse’s financial needs and earning potential, and the ability of each spouse to be self-sufficient. Alimony can be short-term or long-term and is usually designed to provide the lower-earning spouse with enough financial support to maintain their lifestyle until they have the ability to become financially independent. Alimony payments are usually calculated based on the difference between the two spouses’ incomes and living expenses. The court can order a set payment each month, or alimony can be paid in a lump sum. Additionally, alimony payments may be made periodically, such as monthly or annually. In Washington, alimony payments may be modified or terminated based on changes in the circumstances of either spouse.

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What is alimony?

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