How Does Alimony Impact Child Support Obligations in Iowa?

Article written by Illinois & Iowa Attorney Kevin O’Flaherty

In this article, we answer the question “ how does alimony impact child support obligations in Iowa?” We address the following:

• What is alimony?
• Are there different types of spousal support in Iowa?
• How are child support amounts determined in Iowa?
• How does spousal support impact child support obligations in Iowa?

What is alimony?

Spousal support, also known as alimony, is money paid by one spouse to the other following a divorce. The spouse with the higher income is typically required to make monthly spousal support payments, though there are other deciding factors. The purpose of spousal support is to ensure both spouses maintain the same standard of living they grew accustomed to during their marriage. To ensure a fair amount is awarded, a judge may consider any or all of the following points:

• Duration of marriage
• Financial contributions to household
• Domestic contributions to household
• Age of each spouse along with their physical, emotional, and mental health statuses