Spousal support refers to the financial assistance provided by an individual to their former spouse following a divorce or separation. This support is intended to help the lower-earning spouse maintain the same standard of living that was enjoyed during the marriage. It also recognizes the contributions of each person to their marriage. Spousal support and alimony are often used interchangeably and there is no difference between the terms. However, as set forth in Article 3 of the Family Code, “spousal support” is the formal legal term utilized in California.