In a divorce, many couples may find themselves in a situation where one spouse is financially dependent on the other. After the divorce is finished – or even immediately after separation – the non-earning partner will struggle to support themselves. This is where spousal support – also known as alimony – is designed to help. This is a payment made from one spouse to another as a means to provide financial assistance during and after the divorce process.
However, not every divorce has a partner who needs or garners spousal support. Before you start your divorce, it’s best to discuss what qualifies someone for spousal support. We at Untying the Knot Online understand the complexities of spousal support and are here to guide you through the process with our online divorce services.
Qualifications for Spousal Support
Unlike child support, which is a necessity in a divorce with children and a primary custodial parent, whether or not someone receives spousal support has more scrutiny. There is not one clearly defined bar for a divorce to meet to guarantee spousal support, like with child support in Florida.
#1. Length of Marriage
One of the main factors considered is the length of the marriage. A longer marriage may result in a higher likelihood of spousal support being awarded than a short one. A short marriage in this context lasts barely 1 to 2 years.
This is because, in a long-term marriage, one spouse may have sacrificed their career or education to support the other, and it would be unfair for them to suddenly face financial difficulties after the divorce. Being unemployed for a year should not leave someone completely isolated from the current working economy or work culture.
At the same time, some people can provide for themselves after not working for twenty years and some people can’t. Because of this, special circumstances are always taken into consideration.
#2. Income Disparity
Another factor that is taken into consideration is the income disparity between the spouses. If one spouse earns significantly more than the other, then it is likely that spousal support will be awarded to help balance out the financial discrepancy.
This will also take into consideration how much money they each have saved in trusts and business assets. If one has a greater income, but the other has a trust or significantly larger savings, this will be taken into account.
#3. Age and Health
The age and health of both spouses are also taken into account. If one spouse is unable to work due to age or health reasons, they may be entitled to receive spousal support to help cover their living expenses.
#4. Standard of Living
The standard of living during the marriage is also considered. If one spouse is accustomed to a certain lifestyle that they will be unable to maintain after the divorce, they may be awarded spousal support to ensure they can continue living comfortably.
Spousal support may not necessarily help one spouse match what they were at if it would keep the other spouse from maintaining that lifestyle as well.
#5. Other Factors
Other factors that may be taken into consideration include the education and earning potential of each spouse, as well as any contributions made by one spouse to the other’s career or education during the marriage.
How Untying the Knot Online Can Help
Navigating the complexities of spousal support can be overwhelming, especially during a divorce. That’s why our team at Untying the Knot Online is here to help. Our online divorce services make the process easier and faster for both parties involved.
With our experienced attorneys and the service they have designed, you can trust that we will advise you on the best course of action for receiving spousal support. We understand the emotional and financial toll of divorce, and our goal is to make it as smooth and stress-free as possible for you. Contact us today for more information.