FAQ Spousal Support
Q: How is spousal support paid?
There are two ways for spousal support to be paid, compensatory and non-compensatory. Compensatory spousal support is based on the needs of the recipient and ability of the payor to pay spousal support. Non-compensatory spousal support is paid to bring a spouse to a similar lifestyle after marriage to what they had during marriage.
Q: How is the amount of spousal support determined?
There are Spousal Support Advisory Guidelines ("SSAG")which sets out a low, mid and high range for spousal support, based on the parties incomes taking into consideration whether child support is also being paid. .
Q; How long can I receive spousal support?
The range for spousal support differs between provinces. In Alberta, the rule of thumb is 1/2 year of spousal support for every year of marriage.
Q; Are there different ways for spousal support to be paid:
Yes, there are two ways for spousal support to be paid. Periodic payments i.e. monthly payments or lump sum payments. Periodic spousal support is taxable to the recipient and a deduction for the payor while lump sum payments have no tax consequences.