Spousal Support in Indiana
State-specific overview · Family Law
Indiana courts award spousal maintenance based on need and ability to pay, with consideration of marriage length and earning capacity.
How Indiana treats Spousal Support
Indiana law (IC 31-15-7) allows courts to award maintenance when one spouse lacks sufficient property and income to meet reasonable needs. Courts consider factors including the length of marriage, age, physical and mental condition, earning capacity, and the standard of living established during the marriage. Indiana does not use a statutory formula; judges have discretion to determine amount and duration. Awards are modifiable upon a substantial and continuing change in circumstances.
The general definition of Spousal Support
Court-ordered payments from one spouse to another, typically during or after divorce proceedings.
Spousal support, also called maintenance or alimony, is money one spouse pays to the other to help with living expenses during or after a divorce. It recognizes that one spouse may have sacrificed career opportunities during the marriage or may have lower earning potential. Courts consider factors like the length of the marriage, each spouse's income and earning ability, and their age and health when determining if support is appropriate and how much to award. Spousal support can be temporary (lasting only during the divorce process) or permanent (continuing indefinitely or for a set period).
Read the full Spousal Support 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.