Spousal Support and Child Support in Michigan
In the Michigan Child Support Formula, spousal support paid between the parents is not the recipient’s income but remains the payer’s income, while alimony paid to someone other than the other parent is deducted from the payer’s net income.
Alimony between the parents
Alimony or spousal support paid between the parents in the case under consideration is not included as the recipient’s income for child support, but it remains the payer’s income (MCSF 2.07(A)(2)). So the payer’s net income is not reduced for it when support is set.
Alimony paid to someone else
Alimony or spousal support paid to someone other than the other parent in the case is deducted from the payer’s income after federal, state and local income taxes and other mandatory federal taxes such as FICA (MCSF 2.07(A)(1)).
Why it matters
The deduction for alimony paid to a former spouse lowers net income for a new child support case, while alimony between the same parents does not, so the order of the two determinations and the way the orders are written matter.
Spousal support and the estate
The court may award spousal support when the estate awarded is insufficient, so the property division, spousal support and child support are best planned together. See the Michigan property division calculator and the Michigan child support calculator.
Evidence to gather
The alimony order or agreement, proof of payments and the parties’ tax returns.
Documents to gather
The alimony and child support orders, proof of payments and tax returns for both parents.
Next steps
See when spousal support is awarded for the statutory threshold.
Frequently asked questions
Is alimony income for Michigan child support?
Alimony paid between the parents is not included as the recipient's income but remains the payer's income.
Can alimony paid to a former spouse be deducted in Michigan child support?
Yes, alimony paid to someone other than the other parent in the case is deducted from the payer's income after taxes.
Are alimony and child support decided together in Michigan?
The court decides both in the divorce, and the formula treats alimony between the parents as the payer's income.
Does alimony change the Michigan child support amount?
Alimony between the parents does not reduce the payer's income or increase the recipient's, so it does not change the child support figure.
Where is the Michigan rule on alimony and child support?
MCSF 2.07(A) in the 2025 Michigan Child Support Formula Manual.
Official sources
- MCL 552.23: judgment of divorce; further award of estate and spousal support
- MCL 552.28: revision or alteration of alimony
- 2025 Michigan Child Support Formula Manual
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 Michigan statutes, rules and court opinions, and every case turns on its own facts. Confirm how the law applies to your situation with a licensed Michigan attorney.