Alimony, known as spousal support or maintenance in Illinois, can be an important source of income after a divorce. Missing even a few payments can make it harder to keep up with regular expenses, especially when you planned a budget around the amount ordered by the court.
Illinois law gives you ways to collect unpaid spousal support. Past-due maintenance can be enforced as a judgment, and unpaid amounts can also accrue interest. If your ex has stopped making payments in 2026, a Wheaton, IL alimony attorney can help you determine how much is owed and ask the court to enforce the order.
What Happens When Your Ex Stops Paying Alimony in Illinois?
A court-ordered maintenance payment becomes enforceable when it comes due. According to 750 ILCS 5/504, each required maintenance installment is treated as a judgment against the person who owes it.