1. What is Spousal Maintenance?

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

2. How Maintenance is Calculated

The basic calculation for maintenance is:

Where:

• Income Needs - The reasonable financial requirements of the receiving spouse
• Income - The current income of the receiving spouse

Note: UK courts consider many factors including needs, obligations, standard of living, age, duration of marriage, and disabilities.

3. Importance of Maintenance Calculation

Details: Accurate maintenance calculation helps ensure fair financial arrangements during divorce proceedings and prevents either party from suffering undue financial hardship.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter income needs and current income in pounds sterling. The calculator will show the difference which may form the basis for maintenance payments.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Is maintenance always awarded in UK divorces?
A: No, maintenance is only awarded when one spouse cannot meet their reasonable needs from their own income/assets.

Q2: How long does spousal maintenance last?
A: It varies - can be for a fixed term or until certain conditions are met (like remarriage or retirement).

Q3: Can maintenance orders be changed?
A: Yes, if circumstances change significantly (e.g., income changes substantially).

Q4: Is child maintenance the same as spousal maintenance?
A: No, child maintenance is separate and calculated differently through the Child Maintenance Service.

Q5: Are there tax implications for maintenance?
A: Since April 2020, maintenance payments are no longer tax-deductible for the payer nor taxable for the recipient in the UK.