Spousal support — sometimes called alimony — has always been one of the more contentious parts of divorce. In 2026, California courts are taking a closer, more nuanced look at financial realities, shifting away from automatic support orders and focusing more on independence and disclosure.
What’s Changing in Spousal Support Decisions?
Judges in Riverside, San Bernardino, and across California are placing greater emphasis on:
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Earning capacity and underemployment
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Voluntary unemployment or career changes
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Efforts to become self-supporting
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Full and honest financial disclosures
Support is no longer presumed just because one spouse earns less. If a party is voluntarily unemployed or hiding income, the court may impute income — assigning a value to what that spouse could reasonably be earning.
Learn more about spousal support laws and what judges look for today.
Financial Transparency Is Non-Negotiable
California courts now expect complete and updated financial disclosures during and after divorce. This includes:
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Pay stubs, tax returns, and retirement statements
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Business income and self-employment records
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Cryptocurrency or digital assets
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Any history of income suppression or delayed bonuses
We recently represented a Riverside spouse who successfully blocked a support request after uncovering the other party had unreported rental income and had left a job voluntarily to claim lower earnings.
For complex divorces involving shared assets, see our page on property division.
Modifying Support Based on Life Changes
Support orders are not set in stone. In 2026, courts regularly revisit spousal support based on:
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Retirement or significant income change
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Remarriage or new cohabitation
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Long-term health changes
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Failure to comply with support terms
If you’re paying or receiving support, you may qualify for a modification to better reflect your current financial situation.
FAQs: Spousal Support in California (2026)
Q: How is spousal support calculated?
A: Temporary support may follow formulas, but long-term support depends on factors like earning potential, marriage length, and need.
Q: Can I challenge support if my ex is underemployed?
A: Yes. The court can impute income if your ex could be earning more but chooses not to.
Q: What if I suspect hidden income or assets?
A: A skilled attorney can help subpoena records, hire forensic accountants, or challenge inaccurate disclosures.
🔗 Contact Cullen Family Law Group today to schedule your confidential consultation.