In Ohio, there’s no difference between alimony and spousal support. Both terms mean the same thing: payments one spouse makes to the other after a divorce. The purpose of these payments is to help the lower-earning or financially dependent spouse maintain stability and adjust to life after marriage.
While “alimony” is the older term, Ohio law now officially uses “spousal support.” Despite the name change, the goal remains the same: to ensure fairness between spouses after a divorce.
What Is Spousal Support?
Spousal support is a court-ordered payment from one spouse to another. It helps balance the financial gap that often happens during or after a divorce. Spousal support can be:
- Temporary: Payments made during the divorce process to help the dependent spouse with living expenses until the divorce is final.
- Short-term: Payments that continue for a limited period, often to give the recipient time to find a job or complete education.
- Long-term: Payments that last indefinitely, usually in cases where one spouse cannot become self-sufficient due to age, health, or other reasons.
It’s important to know that spousal support is different from child support, which is meant for the care of children.
How Do Courts Decide Spousal Support?
Ohio courts consider many factors when deciding whether spousal support is needed, how much should be paid, and for how long. These factors include:
- Income and earning ability: The court looks at each spouse’s current income and future earning potential.
- Length of the marriage: Longer marriages are more likely to lead to spousal support awards, especially if one spouse depended on the other financially.
- Standard of living: Courts aim to ensure both spouses can maintain a lifestyle similar to what they had during the marriage.
- Age and health: The court considers whether either spouse has medical issues or age-related limitations that affect their ability to work.
- Contributions to the marriage: Non-financial contributions, such as being a stay-at-home parent or supporting the other spouse’s career, are also taken into account.
The goal is to create a fair arrangement based on the unique circumstances of the marriage.
How Is Spousal Support Calculated?
Unlike child support, which uses a specific formula, Ohio does not have a set formula for spousal support. Instead, the court reviews the financial situation of both spouses to decide on an amount and duration that are fair.
Factors that play a role in determining spousal support include:
- The income and expenses of both spouses
- The assets and debts each spouse has after the divorce
- Whether the receiving spouse needs financial help to cover living expenses or gain financial independence
For example, if one spouse stayed home to raise children and has limited work experience, the court might award higher spousal support to help them transition into the workforce.
Can Spousal Support Be Changed?
Yes, spousal support can be modified in Ohio if there is a significant change in circumstances. Either spouse can file a motion with the court to request a modification.
Reasons for modifying spousal support include:
- Job loss or pay reduction
- A significant increase in income for either spouse
- Changes in health that affect the ability to work
- The recipient’s remarriage or cohabitation
If you believe a change in spousal support is needed, it’s important to act quickly and provide evidence to support your request.
Contact the Columbus Divorce Lawyers at Atkins And Atkins, Attorneys At Law, LLC for Help Today With Your Family Law Case
For more information, contact our experienced Columbus family law & divorce attorneys at Atkins And Atkins, Attorneys At Law, LLC by calling (614) 485-8248 to schedule a consultation.
We serve all through Franklin County and its surrounding areas in Ohio. Visit our office at:
Atkins and Atkins, Attorneys at Law, LLC – Columbus Office
503 S Front St Suite 203, Columbus, OH 43215
(614) 485-8248
