Alimony in Indiana
State-specific overview · Family Law
Indiana courts award alimony (called "maintenance") based on need and ability to pay, with no strict formula.
How Indiana treats Alimony
Indiana law (Ind. Code § 31-15-7) allows courts to order spousal maintenance when one spouse cannot support themselves through employment. Courts consider factors including the standard of living, length of marriage, earning capacity, and age or health conditions. Maintenance is not presumed permanent and may be modified or terminated if the recipient remarries, cohabits, or experiences a substantial change in circumstances.
The general definition of Alimony
Court-ordered payments from one spouse to another after divorce or separation.
Alimony is money that a court requires one spouse to pay to the other after they divorce or legally separate. It's designed to help the lower-earning spouse maintain a similar standard of living they had during the marriage. The amount and duration depend on factors like how long the marriage lasted, each person's income and earning ability, and their age and health. Alimony is different from child support, which is specifically for children's needs.
Read the full Alimony entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in Indiana.