Alimony, or spousal support, is a financial payment ordered by the court that one spouse provides to the other after a divorce or legal separation. Its main purpose is to help the lower-earning spouse maintain a standard of living close to what was experienced during the marriage. This support can be temporary, long-term, or rehabilitative—designed to assist a spouse while they gain education or job skills to become self-sufficient.

The amount and duration of alimony are determined based on several factors, including the length of the marriage, the age and health of both spouses, their respective incomes and earning capacities, their contributions to the marriage (financial and otherwise), and their future financial needs. Alimony is not automatic; it must be requested and justified in court. It may be modified or ended if significant changes occur, such as the recipient remarrying or a major shift in income for either party. Overall, alimony aims to ensure fairness and financial balance during and after the divorce process.