Modifying Spousal Support in Iowa
In Iowa, the court may modify a spousal support order when there is a substantial change in circumstances, considering changes in income, resources, health, dependents, residence, remarriage and support from another person; property divisions cannot be modified.
The rule
Subject to federal law, the court may later modify child, spousal or medical support orders when there is a substantial change in circumstances (Iowa Code 598.21C(1)). The 10% test is only for child support: for spousal support the change has to be substantial.
What the court considers
In deciding whether there is a substantial change, the court considers changes in the employment, earning capacity, income or resources of a party; receipt by a party of an inheritance, pension or other gift; changes in medical expenses; in the number or needs of dependents; in the physical, mental or emotional health of a party; in the residence of a party; remarriage of a party; possible support of a party by another person; contempt of existing orders; and other relevant factors.
Remarriage and support from others
Remarriage of a party and possible support of a party by another person are both on the list, so a new household can be grounds to ask for a change. Check your decree, which may say when support ends.
What to bring
Before-and-after income and expense records, medical records, proof of the other change relied on and the dates of each. A modification applies from the date it is ordered, so do not wait.
Property cannot be modified
Property divisions made under the chapter are not subject to modification, which is why a larger property award can be a more certain substitute for ongoing support. See the family home and pensions.
Documents to gather
The decree, proof of the change in circumstances with dates, and records of your income, resources and expenses before and after.
Child support is different
Child support modification has its own 10% rule; see the Iowa child support calculator for the current guideline amount.
Frequently asked questions
Can Iowa spousal support be modified?
Yes, when there is a substantial change in circumstances under Iowa Code 598.21C.
What counts as a substantial change in Iowa?
Changes in employment, income or resources, an inheritance or pension, medical expenses, dependents, health, residence, remarriage or support from another person, among others.
Does remarriage change Iowa spousal support?
It is one of the listed changes the court considers, and your decree may also say when support ends.
Is the Iowa property division modifiable?
No. Property divisions are not subject to modification.
Is there a 10% rule for Iowa spousal support?
No. The 10% rule applies to child support; spousal support needs a substantial change in circumstances.
Official sources
A local family law attorney can review your situation — many offer a free consultation.
This is general information, not legal advice. It is based on the cited Iowa statutes, rules and court opinions, and every case turns on its own facts. Confirm how the law applies to your situation with a licensed Iowa attorney.