Since spousal support – also known as alimony or spousal maintenance – is typically a controversial issue during a divorce, if the receiving spouse asks for an increase or the paying spouse asks that the amount be decreased later on, the issue can get even more contentious. Unless an Illinois divorce order states that the awarded spousal support is non-modifiable, there are circumstances under which it can be later modified.
The modification of spousal support is covered under 750 ILCS 5/510. If your ex is asking for an increase in support or you, as the paying spouse, need to request that the amount be lowered, it is time to speak to an experienced Will County, IL family law attorney.
What if the Paying Spouse Wants to Reduce Spousal Support?
Whether an individual is asking for spousal support to be increased, reduced, or terminated, there must be a “substantial change in circumstances” for a judge to consider a modification. Most spousal support awards have a set period of time. When this time is up – or if the receiving spouse marries, cohabitates, or dies or the paying spouse dies – then the order would likely end.