Alimony, spousal support, spousal maintenance, or domestic partner support (collectively, spousal support) is generally financial support in the form of periodic payments (usually monthly) paid by one spouse or domestic partner to the other spouse or domestic partner upon divorce.

The person paying spousal support or the person receiving spousal support may seek to modify the court’s order for support—usually by increasing it or decreasing it—due to a material change in circumstances of the person paying support or the person receiving support.

Spousal support laws vary from state to state and are generally located in a state’s statutes—often in the family or domestic code.

In Iowa, alimony, also known as spousal support, is financial assistance provided by one spouse to the other following a divorce. The purpose of alimony is to help the receiving spouse maintain a standard of living similar to that enjoyed during the marriage, particularly if there is a significant disparity in earning potential or income between the spouses. Iowa courts consider several factors when determining whether to award alimony, including the length of the marriage, the age and physical and emotional health of the parties, the distribution of property, and the earning capacity of each spouse. Alimony can be temporary, short-term, or permanent, depending on the circumstances. Either party can request a modification of the alimony order if there is a substantial change in circumstances, such as a significant change in income, employment status, or living situation. The request for modification must be made through the court, and the party seeking the change must demonstrate that the change in circumstances is material and was not anticipated at the time of the original order.