Entitlement of Alimony

Hello Sir,

Alimony (maintenance, support or sustenance) is the financial support that is provided to a spouse after divorce. Generally, it is provided if a spouse does not have adequate means to take care of the basic needs of life. Although, according to law, alimony can be granted to either spouse, usually, it is required to be awarded by the husband to his wife.

Under Section 25 of the Hindu Marriage Act, permanent alimony is provided by the court to the wife or even to the husband for her or his support and maintenance. In case the wife is a working woman, but there is a considerable difference between her and her husband’s net earnings, she will still be awarded alimony to help her maintain the same standard of living as her husband.

If the wife is not earning, the court will consider her age, educational qualification and ability to earn to decide the amount of alimony. If the husband is disabled and is unable to earn and the wife is earning, then the court grants alimony to the husband.

I hope this helps you with your query.

Regards,

Varnita Ojha