When Can Alimony Be Changed?

Yes, you can often change (modify) an alimony/spousal support agreement—but only if certain legal requirements are met.

 

Here’s how it usually works:

 

Most courts allow modification if there’s a “material change in circumstances,” such as:

• Job loss or major income decrease
• Significant increase in either spouse’s income
• Serious illness or disability
• Remarriage or cohabitation of the recipient
• Retirement
• Major financial hardship

Small or temporary changes usually aren’t enough.

 

Court-Ordered vs. Private Agreements

1) Court-Ordered Alimony

If a judge ordered your support:

you must file a motion with the court where a  judge decides whether to approve the change and you usually need proof of changed circumstances

 

2) Private/Settlement Agreement

If alimony was set in a divorce agreement:

• Some agreements allow changes
• Some say alimony is non-modifiable
• Courts will usually honor what you agreed to

 

Check your divorce decree or settlement carefully.