Alimony (sometimes called "spousal support") is meant to provide financial assistance for a spouse who may need it before and after divorce. There is no precise formula for determining how much alimony a spouse will be awarded in a divorce case.There are no guidelines or formulas in North Carolina law to determine how much alimony a dependent spouse should receive. A North Carolina court may allow alimony if one spouse is a "supporting spouse" and the other a "dependent spouse," and such a payment is "equitable." In North Carolina, alimony (also known as spousal support) can provide crucial support for a spouse who relied financially during the marriage. Concerned with the financial impact of a divorce? Call Breeden Law Office for help with spousal support and alimony today: (919) 661-4970. Typically, the court will award alimony when the couple divorcing have been married for an extended period and have unequal earning potential. Alimony is payable from a supporting spouse to a dependent spouse, meaning only a dependent spouse may receive alimony. This packet provides information, steps, and forms for getting an absolute divorce.