How Rising Inflation Can Affect Spousal Support—and What You Can Do About It in Michigan
Amid ongoing inflationary pressures, it’s no surprise that the rising cost of living is impacting nearly every aspect of life—including divorce settlements and ongoing spousal support obligations. Whether you’re receiving support or responsible for paying it, inflation can make a significant difference in how far those dollars go. If you’re concerned about how inflation may impact your current or future support order, it may be time to consult with an experienced spousal support attorney in Michigan.
Understanding Spousal Support in Michigan
Spousal support—commonly referred to as alimony—is a financial arrangement where one spouse provides monetary assistance to the other after a divorce. It’s intended to help the receiving spouse maintain a lifestyle reasonably similar to what they had during the marriage, especially if there’s a significant income disparity.
Michigan courts don’t use a strict formula to determine support. Instead, judges weigh factors such as:
- The length of the marriage
- The age and health of each spouse
- The standard of living established during the marriage
- Each party’s earning capacity and ability to become self-supporting
- Contributions to the marriage (financial and non-financial)
But here’s what those guidelines often don’t account for: economic shifts after the order is finalized.
The Inflation Problem: Fixed Support in a Changing Economy
When support is ordered as a fixed monthly payment, that amount may seem fair at the time of divorce. But inflation can gradually erode the value of those payments over the years. For the recipient, that means the support might not cover the same costs it once did—especially for essentials like housing, groceries, medical care, or transportation.
Meanwhile, the person paying support may also be affected by inflation. Rising interest rates, job changes, or business disruptions can tighten their budget too, making it harder to meet obligations.
In short, what once was fair may no longer be sustainable—on either side.
How Michigan Courts Handle Inflation and Spousal Support
Unlike child support, Michigan spousal support orders are not automatically adjusted for inflation. However, there are a few ways inflation may be addressed:
1. Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) Clauses
Some divorce settlements proactively include COLA clauses, which automatically increase the support amount based on inflation metrics like the Consumer Price Index (CPI). Unfortunately, many people don’t realize this option exists until it’s too late.
If your support order lacks a COLA provision, it may be time to revisit your agreement with the help of a qualified spousal support attorney.
2. Modifying Support Due to “Changed Circumstances”
Michigan law allows for spousal support modifications if either party can show a significant change in circumstances. If inflation has severely impacted your ability to maintain a reasonable standard of living—or to make the payments—you may be able to file a motion to modify the order.
Some common economic triggers include:
- Job loss or reduction in income
- Increased living expenses
- Changes in healthcare or insurance costs
- Market shifts that affect investments or business income
It’s important to act quickly. The court will not backdate modifications to cover past hardships unless there is already a motion on file.
Why You Need a Spousal Support Attorney
Whether you’re seeking to increase your support due to rising expenses or hoping to reduce your burden because of economic pressure, working with a knowledgeable spousal support attorney is essential. Here’s why:
- Legal Guidance: Your attorney can assess whether your situation meets the legal threshold for modification.
- Accurate Filing: A mistake in your motion or failure to provide adequate documentation could delay or derail your case.
- Negotiation Support: In some cases, it may be possible to negotiate a revised agreement without going to court.
- Protection of Rights: An experienced attorney ensures your rights are protected, especially if your former spouse is resisting the modification.
Proactive Planning for Future Agreements
If you’re in the process of divorce now, inflation should be part of the conversation from the beginning. Here’s how you can protect yourself in a spousal support arrangement:
- Include a COLA clause in your divorce judgment
- Specify review periods for support modifications (e.g., every 2–3 years)
- Avoid overly rigid terms that don’t allow for flexibility
- Account for future changes in income or employment
At The Mitten Law Firm, we help clients throughout Michigan understand and prepare for these kinds of economic impacts—because a strong support agreement today should still work for you tomorrow.
Talk to a Spousal Support Attorney Who Understands Michigan Law
Inflation isn’t going away anytime soon—and neither should your peace of mind. If you’re struggling with a support order that no longer fits your financial reality, or if you’re finalizing a divorce and want to build in future protection, reach out to The Mitten Law Firm today.
Our experienced spousal support attorney can evaluate your situation, explain your options, and guide you through the modification or enforcement process. We’ve helped clients across Wayne County protect their financial futures during and after divorce—and we’re ready to help you too.