1. What is Spousal Maintenance?

Spousal maintenance (also called spousal support or alimony) is financial support paid by one spouse to another after divorce or separation. In the UK, it's designed to help the lower-earning spouse maintain a reasonable standard of living.

2. How is Maintenance Calculated in the UK?

The basic calculation considers:

Where:

• Income Needs - The reasonable financial requirements of the recipient
• Income - The recipient's own income and earning capacity

Important: UK courts consider many factors beyond this simple calculation, including:

• Duration of marriage
• Age and health of both parties
• Standard of living during marriage
• Childcare responsibilities

3. Factors Affecting Maintenance

Key considerations: Maintenance amounts and duration vary case by case. Courts aim for fairness, considering both parties' needs and ability to pay.

4. Using the Calculator

Instructions: Enter the recipient's income needs and their current income. The calculator provides a basic estimate - actual court orders may differ.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How long does spousal maintenance last?
A: It varies - could be for a fixed term, until retirement, or indefinitely in long marriages where one spouse can't become self-sufficient.

Q2: Is maintenance taxable in the UK?
A: For divorces finalized before April 6, 2023, maintenance is tax-deductible for the payer and taxable for the recipient. For newer divorces, it's neither deductible nor taxable.

Q3: Can maintenance be changed?
A: Yes, if circumstances change significantly (e.g., income changes, remarriage, retirement), either party can apply to court for variation.

Q4: What's the difference between child maintenance and spousal maintenance?
A: Child maintenance is specifically for children's costs, while spousal maintenance supports the ex-partner. They're calculated separately.

Q5: Do cohabiting couples qualify for maintenance?
A: Generally no - spousal maintenance typically only applies to married couples or civil partners after divorce/dissolution.