Alimony, also called spousal maintenance in Minnesota, helps one spouse maintain financial stability after divorce. Unlike child support, Minnesota law does not use a set formula for alimony. Instead, courts consider multiple factors to determine the amount and duration of payments.
Factors that affect alimony decisions
Judges evaluate several factors when deciding if alimony is necessary. These include the length of the marriage, the financial resources of both spouses, each spouse’s ability to be self-supporting, the standard of living during the marriage, and the age, health, and earning capacity of both spouses all play a role.
Longer marriages often result in higher or longer-lasting alimony payments. If one spouse sacrificed career growth for family responsibilities, they may receive more support.
Types of spousal maintenance
Minnesota courts may award three types of spousal maintenance:
- Temporary maintenance: Provides financial support during the divorce process.
- Short-term maintenance: Helps a spouse become self-sufficient, often covering job training or education.
- Permanent maintenance: Awarded in long-term marriages when one spouse cannot support themselves due to age, illness, or disability.
Courts prefer short-term support unless permanent maintenance is necessary.
Modifying or ending alimony
Alimony payments may be adjusted or terminated if circumstances change. If the receiving spouse remarries or gains significant income, the paying spouse can request a modification. Courts review these requests based on fairness and financial need.
Understanding your options
Spousal maintenance decisions impact both spouses long after divorce. Courts aim to create fair agreements based on financial realities. Understanding the factors that influence alimony can help you plan for the future.
