Can I Change My Alimony Payments in Illinois?

 Posted on August 27, 2025 in Spousal Support

After an initial divorce decree, much can change. When that happens, the amount you pay or receive in alimony, also known as spousal support or maintenance, may no longer fit your real needs. Understanding how courts look at these changes can help you decide whether to ask for a new order. With the right records, a clear plan, and the assistance of an experienced Addison, IL spousal support attorney, you can present your situation and seek a fair result.

What Situations Call for the Modification of Spousal Maintenance in Illinois?

According to the modification section of the Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act, Illinois courts may change maintenance when there is a substantial change in circumstances. Judges often revisit the same core factors used to set support, including income, needs, earning capacity, and the marital standard of living, as described in 750 ILCS 5/504. If your settlement made maintenance non-modifiable, courts usually enforce that agreement. Otherwise, a judge can raise, lower, suspend, or end payments after a proper motion for modification.

Common life changes that may justify a request to modify maintenance include:

• An involuntary job loss or a significant, lasting cut in income

• Reduced hours, industry layoffs, or a business downturn beyond your control

• A serious health condition or disability that limits your ability to work

• A good-faith retirement at a typical age based on your work history

• A meaningful raise, promotion, or new income stream for either party

• Higher necessary expenses, such as increased childcare, housing, or medical costs

• New support duties for other children or family members

• The recipient’s improved earnings after training, education, or a new job

Proof matters. Pay stubs, tax returns, medical records, job-search logs, and business statements show what has changed since the last order. Keep in mind that the payor is still responsible for payments until the court enters a new order.

When Can Spousal Support Be Terminated in Illinois?

Maintenance ends automatically in some situations. If the recipient remarries, payments stop on the wedding day. It can also end when the recipient lives with a new partner in a continuing, marriage-like relationship, legally known as cohabitation. In this situation, judges look at everyday signs like sharing a home or bills, frequent overnights, trips together, and pooled expenses. They may even evaluate how the couple presents themselves to others. Maintenance also ends if either party dies.

Other terminations depend on the order and the facts. A fixed-term award usually ends when the term expires unless it is set for review. A paying spouse’s good-faith retirement may justify ending or reducing support after the court considers age, health, work history, and the reason for retiring. Parties may also agree in writing to end maintenance on certain dates or events, and courts often approve fair terms. If any of these apply, file promptly and bring organized financial records so the judge can decide whether termination is warranted.

Contact a Plainfield, IL Spousal Support Attorney Today

Small details often determine whether maintenance payments increase, decrease, or remain the same. Our team pairs steady guidance with strong advocacy. With over 40 years of experience, we walk you through each step, explain your choices, and help you feel confident about the process.

Attorney Robert F. Kramer, the Addison, IL spousal support lawyer at The Law Offices of Robert F. Kramer, Ltd., is an accomplished trial and appellate advocate who will hold your hand through every step of the legal process. If you are considering a change to spousal support, call 630-785-2400 to schedule a free 30-minute initial consultation.