Minnesota alimony is awarded when, considering the standard of living attained during the marriage, a spouse cannot provide for his or her reasonable needs, or is unable to provide adequate self-support through appropriate employment, or is the custodian of a child whose condition or circumstances make it appropriate that the custodian remain at home.

In determining the amount and duration of alimony or spousal support, a Minnesota Court considers the sacrifices the homemaker has made in terms of earnings, employment, experience, and opportunities.

Alimony influences the distribution of property, and it can become important in a divorce settlement. When spouses are unable to reach an agreement on this issue, the County Court can order support on a case-by-case basis.

Minnesota courts may order temporary, short- and long-term alimony. Temporary alimony is granted at the discretion of the court during the divorce proceedings and before the final decree. Short-term alimony may be granted to allow the receiving party time to gain necessary skills. Long-Term, or permanent, maintenance may be granted to a spouse who has significant needs, and is usually reserved for lengthy marriages.

In Minnesota, alimony is discretionary. According to Minnesota Statutes - Chapters: 518.551, 518.552,the court awards support on a temporary or permanent basis, as the court deems just, without considering marital misconduct, and after considering the following economic factors: