In essence, the amount of spousal support is based on both the ability to pay and the needs of the beneficiary. The assessment is based on certain percentages that have been worked out in case law. Thus, the non-working spouse is entitled to 33% of the income of the other spouse. The low-earning spouse is entitled to 40% of the joint income.
If the debtor has to provide for children, the percentage is reduced by 4 % for each child. Maintenance obligations towards a divorced spouse also further reduce the percentage by 1-3 %.
