What is spousal support?

Last updated on March 6, 2024

Spousal support is paid by one spouse to financially support the other spouse after separation, under an agreement or order.

The purpose of spousal support is to help meet the on-going financial needs of a financially dependent spouse for a defined period of time.

The objectives of spousal support are to:

  • Deal with any economic advantages or disadvantages a spouse may face as a result of the relationship or separation
  • Share the financial consequences arising from care of the children
  • Reduce the financial hardship a spouse will experience as a result of the separation, and
  • Encourage each spouse to become financially self-sufficient within a reasonable period of time

For more information, please see Spousal support on Legal Aid BC's Family Law in BC website.