Spousal Support in Wisconsin
State-specific overview · Family Law
Wisconsin courts determine spousal support using statutory factors with no fixed formula, considering need, ability to pay, and marriage length.
How Wisconsin treats Spousal Support
Wisconsin law under § 767.56 requires courts to evaluate factors including the length of the marriage, age and health of each spouse, earning capacity, and whether one spouse sacrificed education or career for the marriage. The state does not mandate a specific calculation method, giving judges discretion to tailor awards to individual circumstances. Support may be awarded as temporary (during divorce) or permanent (post-divorce), though permanent awards are less common in shorter marriages. Courts may also order support to be paid in a lump sum or through periodic payments.
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 Wisconsin.