Alimony in Kansas
State-specific overview · Family Law
Kansas calls spousal support "maintenance" and bases awards on income, length of marriage, and statutory factors without a specific durational cap.
How Kansas treats Alimony
Kansas courts award maintenance based on the obligor's ability to pay and the obligee's financial need, considering factors like age, health, earning capacity, and length of marriage. Awards typically end upon remarriage of the recipient or death of either party. The state follows an income-shares model for calculation but does not impose a fixed maximum duration, allowing indefinite awards in long-term marriages. Modification is available if circumstances change materially.
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 Kansas.