Spousal Support and CPI

[Concerned1]

I just got the first draft of our SA and the lawyer has included a clause that Spousal Support should be increased each year based on the increase of the Canadian CPI - All items. Is it a normal practice to have Spousal Support increase based on the CPI? Or do most people just have it as a static amount over the term?

Thanks

[fireweb13]

What if your wage remains static?

[Concerned1]

Actually there is a clause that I can choose my wage increase, if it is less than the CPI increase.

[Mess]

I wouldn't consider either choice "normal". SS is based on what you earned within the marriage based on any contributions she made, damage to her career, etc. It shouldn't keep going up and up and up. If you make more money next year it's due to you, not her.

[dinkyface]

For how many years is your SS payable? If under 5-10 years, then it's not going to make that much difference.

[Concerned1]

It's payable for 9 years, so over time the increases would add up. I think CPI has increased 2-3% on average.