Life doesn’t stand still after a divorce. Jobs change. Health declines. People move or retire. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average American switches jobs 12 times in their lifetime. Many also face unexpected medical bills or shifts in income. For divorced individuals paying or receiving spousal support, these changes can quickly make the original support order unfair or unmanageable.
If your situation has changed since your divorce, you may wonder: Can I modify my spousal support order? The short answer is yes—but only under certain conditions.
Let’s discuss how spousal support modification works in Texas, when it’s possible, and how to take the right legal steps to protect your financial future.
What Is Spousal Support in Texas?
In Texas, spousal support (also called spousal maintenance) is a court-ordered payment from one spouse to another after divorce. It’s meant to help the lower-earning spouse meet basic needs after the marriage ends. Courts only award it in specific situations—such as long-term marriages, disability, or cases involving domestic violence.
Support isn’t automatic and it’s not meant to last forever. However, circumstances can change, and when they do, the original order may no longer fit.
Can Spousal Support Be Modified?
Yes, but not in every case. Texas law allows spousal support modification only when there’s a material and substantial change in circumstances for either the paying or receiving party. This isn’t just about small income shifts or lifestyle choices. The change must be significant and ongoing.
Common valid reasons include:
- Job loss or major reduction in income
- Permanent disability or serious illness
- Retirement (not voluntary early retirement)
- A substantial change in the receiving spouse’s income
- Remarriage or cohabitation by the receiving spouse
What Doesn’t Count as a Valid Reason?
Not every life event qualifies. The court may deny a request to change spousal support if the paying spouse quits a job voluntarily, takes a lower-paying role on purpose, or racks up debt by choice. Judges look closely at the reasons behind the request to see if it’s fair and unavoidable.
How to Request a Spousal Support Modification in Houston
To change your spousal support order, you must file a formal request with the same court that issued your original divorce decree. Here’s what the process usually looks like:
1. File a Motion to Modify
This legal document explains why you believe the current order no longer works. You’ll need to outline your life changes and provide proof (such as pay stubs, medical records, or job termination letters).
2. Serve the Other Party
The other party must receive notice of your request. They’ll have a chance to respond, agree, or contest your motion.
3. Attend a Court Hearing
A judge will review the evidence from both sides and decide if the change is justified. The judge can increase, reduce, or terminate the support, depending on the facts.
What If You Stop Paying Without a Court Order?
Never stop or change your payments without getting court approval. Doing so can lead to serious legal trouble, such as fines, wage garnishment, or even jail time. Even if both spouses agree to a new arrangement, it’s not legally enforceable until the court signs off on it.
Do You Need a Spousal Support Attorney?
It’s always a smart move. A spousal support attorney can help you present strong evidence, meet court deadlines, and avoid mistakes that could delay your case. If the other party fights the change, it’s even more important to have professional legal support.
Don’t Wait to Request a Change
If your financial situation has shifted, don’t wait months to act. In most cases, the court will not adjust support retroactively. That means you’ll still owe the full amount up to the date you file your motion. The sooner you take action, the better.
Consult Professional Spousal Support Attorneys from Daniel Ogbeide Law
If your financial circumstances have changed and you believe your current spousal support order no longer fits your situation, don’t wait. The court won’t adjust support unless you file a formal request.
At Daniel Ogbeide Law, our team understands how stressful these transitions can be. Our spousal support attorneys help clients in Houston pursue fair and lawful spousal support modification based on clear legal grounds. Whether you’re facing job loss, health issues, or major life changes, we’re here to guide you through the legal process with confidence. Contact our spousal support attorneys in Houston today to discuss your options.