Can Alimony Be Changed After Divorce in Illinois?

 Posted on February 12, 2026 in Divorce

Alimony, known as spousal maintenance, can sometimes be changed after a divorce in Illinois. Courts recognize that life does not stay the same, and support orders may need to be updated when finances or personal circumstances shift.

If you are experiencing financial changes in 2026 and need to change your alimony order, our Kane County, IL alimony lawyers can help you understand whether a modification may be possible and how to approach the process.

When Can Alimony Be Modified in Illinois?

Maintenance may be modified when there has been a substantial change in circumstances. This generally refers to a meaningful shift that affects either the ability to pay or the need to receive support.

Situations that often justify a review include:

• Job loss or long-term unemployment

• Retirement

• A serious illness or disability

• A major change in living expenses

• The receiving spouse becoming financially independent or getting married

Courts look at whether the change is ongoing rather than temporary. Short-term financial setbacks are less likely to lead to a modification.

What Does Illinois Law Say About Changing Spousal Support?

Illinois law allows courts to modify or end maintenance when circumstances change. Under 750 ILCS 5/510, the person requesting the change must show that the current order is no longer fair based on present conditions.

The court reviews income, property, financial obligations, and earning ability for both spouses. Maintenance usually ends if the receiving spouse remarries. It may also end if that spouse enters a supportive relationship that functions similarly to a marriage.

The court’s goal is fairness based on today’s reality, not the situation that existed at the time of divorce.

Can Alimony Be Reduced After a Job Loss or Income Drop in Illinois?

A major decrease in income can support a request to lower alimony. Judges often look closely at why the income changed.

If the loss was outside your control, such as layoffs or medical issues, the court may be more willing to adjust the order. However, voluntarily leaving a job without a strong reason may lead the court to deny the request.

It is important to continue making payments until a judge approves a change. Falling behind can result in penalties and added legal stress.

Can Alimony Be Modified if the Receiving Spouse Becomes Financially Independent?

If the spouse receiving maintenance now earns enough to support themselves, that may justify modifying or ending payments. Courts often consider whether the original purpose of alimony has been fulfilled.

Still, increased earnings alone do not automatically lead to a change. Judges evaluate the full financial picture before making a decision.

How Do You Ask the Court To Change a Maintenance Order in Illinois?

You cannot modify alimony through a private agreement alone. A formal request must be filed with the same court that handled the divorce.

The process typically involves submitting updated financial records and explaining the change in circumstances. In some cases, a hearing may be scheduled so both sides can present information.

Preparation is important because courts rely heavily on accurate documentation when making decisions.

What Mistakes Should You Avoid When Seeking an Alimony Modification?

Taking the wrong steps can delay the process or weaken your request. Being aware of common mistakes can help you protect your position.

Try to avoid:

Stopping payments without court approval

Relying on verbal agreements

Waiting too long to request a change

Providing incomplete financial records

Assuming the court will automatically grant a modification

Careful preparation often leads to smoother proceedings and fewer surprises.

Can Alimony Ever Be Permanent in Illinois?

Some maintenance orders last for a set number of years, while others may continue indefinitely. Long-term maintenance is more likely after lengthy marriages where one spouse cannot reasonably become self-supporting.

Even so, long-standing orders can still be reviewed if circumstances change significantly. Courts understand that financial situations rarely remain the same over time.

Contact Our Will County, IL Spousal Support Attorneys Today

If your financial circumstances have changed, you deserve guidance that focuses on solutions rather than conflict. At SpyratosDavis LLC, our team helps clients navigate support modifications with clarity and purpose.

We take the time to understand your goals and work toward outcomes that make sense for your future. Call 630-810-8881 today to schedule a consultation with our Kane County, IL alimony lawyers and learn how we can help.