Alimony Explained: What You Need to Know After Divorce

If you’re going through a divorce, alimony is one of the biggest questions on your mind. In plain terms, alimony (also called spousal support or maintenance) is money one partner pays to the other after a separation. It’s meant to help the lower‑earning spouse keep a similar standard of living, at least for a while.

Every case is different, but the basic idea stays the same: the court looks at both partners’ incomes, how long the marriage lasted, and each person’s future earning potential. If you’ve been married for a short time and both earn similar amounts, you might not see alimony at all. On the other hand, a long marriage where one spouse gave up a career to raise children often leads to a longer or larger support order.

How Courts Decide the Amount

Judges use a few simple factors to work out the number. First, they compare the spouses’ current earnings. Next, they look at the standard of living you both enjoyed during the marriage. They also consider the age and health of each partner, and whether any children are involved.

Many courts follow a formula that starts with the higher earner’s net income, subtracts the lower earner’s net income, and then applies a percentage—usually between 20% and 30% of that difference. That percentage can go up or down depending on the factors above. For example, if the higher earner makes ₹1,00,000 a month and the lower earner makes ₹40,000, the difference is ₹60,000. Applying a 25% rate would result in ₹15,000 alimony each month.

Types of Alimony and How Long They Last

There are a few common shapes alimony can take. Rehabilitative alimony helps the supported spouse get back on their feet—think paying for education or job training. Periodic alimony is a regular payment that continues until the lower earner can become self‑sufficient, the marriage ends, or a set time runs out. Permanent alimony is rare now, but still appears in very long marriages where one spouse can’t become independent.

Most agreements include a review clause. That means the payment can be adjusted if either partner’s financial situation changes—like a raise, a loss of a job, or a health issue. If you want to end alimony early, you usually need to prove a “material change” in circumstances, such as the supported spouse remarrying.

It’s a good idea to get a written agreement and have the court approve it. An informal handshake can leave you vulnerable if the other side decides not to pay later.

Finally, remember that alimony is taxable for the payer and considered income for the receiver—at least in India, where the tax rules treat it as a regular income source. Keep records of all payments, and talk to a tax professional if you’re unsure how it affects your filing.

Whether you’re negotiating a settlement or waiting for a court order, understanding these basics will make the process less stressful. Ask your lawyer about local guidelines, because each state can have its own twist on the formula. With the right info, you can plan your finances and move forward with confidence.