Spousal Support

In Texas, spousal support, alimony, or spousal maintenance is not automatic. When a court order is issued for spousal support, it is generally intended to provide the spouse with periodic payments from the former spouse’s income. The spouse receiving the support typically must show that they lack sufficient resources to provide for his/her reasonable needs. The requesting spouse may be required to show that they are not able to find gainful employment because of a disability, lack of employable skill sets, or lack of suitable education.

Spousal Support

The Family Code of Texas states that spousal support orders are not effective after three years from the date of the divorce decree being signed. Texas courts may limit spousal support to the shortest time possible for the spouse to begin employment that will meet his/her reasonable needs. Each support order is decided on a case by case basis.

The following types of questions:

  • Can I receive spousal support?
  • Can I receive alimony?
  • Can I receive spousal maintenance payments?
  • When am I entitled to the support?
  • When am I entitled to alimony?
  • How much alimony can I get?
  • How long can I get the support?
  • What if I can’t find employment after the divorce?
  • What if I don’t have any employable skills?
  • What if I have never had a job?
  • Can I get the support if we were never married but lived together?
English  |  Español

America Family Law Center
can be contacted by
phone or text at 214-516-7700
Children need their parents