Spousal support, or alimony, is intended to help a lower-earning spouse maintain a reasonable standard of living after a divorce. However, the specifics of how that money can be spent often bring up questions. A lawyer, like a spousal support lawyer, knows that one common question people have is whether spousal support funds can be used for personal expenses like hair restoration services. Here, we’ll discuss how spousal support is generally intended to be used and whether it can cover cosmetic procedures like hair restoration.
Purpose Of Spousal Support
Spousal support is designed to provide financial assistance to the spouse who may be at a disadvantage financially after the marriage ends. Typically, it is meant to help cover essential living expenses and maintain a similar standard of living to what was established during the marriage. Basic uses include housing, utilities, food, healthcare, and any other necessary expenses that directly affect the recipient’s well-being and daily life.
Some expenses fall into a gray area, and how spousal support can be used will vary based on individual needs, the terms of the spousal support agreement, and the court’s intention when awarding support.
Is Hair Restoration An Acceptable Use Of Spousal Support?
Technically, spousal support does not restrict recipients to a rigid spending plan, so there is some flexibility for personal expenses, especially if the support covers all essential costs first. Hair restoration, although it may not be a “necessary” medical expense, can have significant psychological benefits for those dealing with hair loss. For some individuals, it may contribute to improved self-esteem, emotional well-being, or even help them feel more confident in professional or social settings, which can be crucial after a divorce.
As the team at Hair Restoration Physicians can tell you, if hair restoration services fit comfortably within the monthly support amount and don’t compromise other necessary expenses, then spending spousal support on such a service may not raise concerns. However, if the recipient is struggling to cover basic costs and decides to prioritize cosmetic treatments, a court might view that choice as mismanagement of support funds. Courts typically don’t monitor every detail of how spousal support is spent, but if spending becomes an issue in future hearings or modifications, questionable spending patterns could become relevant.
Discussing Your Spousal Support Terms With An Attorney
It’s important to remember that every spousal support arrangement is unique. Some support agreements come with specific stipulations about the intended use of funds. For example, if the court has earmarked part of the spousal support for educational or career development purposes, it would be wise to prioritize those needs. Additionally, if the spousal support recipient is considering a significant cosmetic expense, they might want to consult with their attorney to understand how that spending could be perceived.
In some cases, spousal support may be adjusted based on a demonstrated change in needs or circumstances, so having a clear record of where funds are spent can be beneficial.
Making The Most Of Spousal Support
While spousal support is awarded to cover essential expenses, it doesn’t necessarily preclude personal choices that contribute to the recipient’s well-being. Recipients should aim to spend support in a way that reflects their true financial needs, prioritizes their future stability, and respects any specific terms of their support agreement. Attorneys at Robinson & Hadeed discuss the importance of responsible spending and understanding the court’s intentions when it comes to spousal support. If you’re uncertain about your spending choices or considering a support modification, consulting a family law attorney can provide clarity. They can advise you on how to approach spending decisions or modifications effectively. Speak with a lawyer today.