Spousal Support, called Spousal Maintenance, and Alimony are two types of money paid by one spouse to the other spouse monthly, either during or after a divorce. The main difference between the two is tax treatment. Spousal Maintenance may be ordered during the pendency of a divorce for a number of reasons. However, spousal maintenance can only be ordered post-divorce if the factors in the statute are met. How much will be paid is also determined by statute.