> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.pylon.mortgage/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Divorce Decree for Support Obligations

> Provide the complete divorce decree when support-related liabilities appear, to determine their impact on qualifying ratios.

## What this task is

This task collects the **executed, unredacted divorce decree** when the borrower has **support-related liabilities**, such as **alimony** or similar obligations, that appear in the credit profile or application.
The decree typically outlines:

* **Who is obligated** to pay support,
* The **amount and frequency** of payments, and
* The **duration** or conditions under which the obligation continues.

## When this task is required

This task is required when:

* A liability is associated with **alimony or similar support**, and
* The underwriter must determine:
  * Whether the obligation should be **included in [DTI](/entity-models/key-concepts/dti)**, and
  * How long it will **continue beyond closing**.

It may also be requested if the borrower **discloses alimony** even if it is not yet visible on credit.

## Why this task is required

Support obligations can have a **significant impact** on a borrower’s **monthly obligations and residual income**.
The divorce decree:

* Provides the **authoritative legal source** for the amount and duration of payments.
* Helps underwriters determine whether support is **temporary or long-term**.
* Ensures the loan file treats the obligation **consistently with legal requirements and program guidelines**.

Without the decree, the lender may have to:

* Make **conservative assumptions** about the support amount and duration, or
* Treat the file as **incomplete**, delaying underwriting decisions.

## Documents needed to resolve this task

To satisfy this task, provide:

* The **complete, executed divorce decree**, including:
  * All pages relevant to **support obligations**, property settlements, and continuing **financial responsibilities**.
  * Any **amendments or modifications** that change support amounts or terms.
* If the decree is **older** and support terms have changed, also provide:
  * Any **court orders or agreements** that update the original support provisions.

These documents allow the underwriter to correctly reflect **support-related liabilities** in the borrower's [DTI](/entity-models/key-concepts/dti) and overall risk profile.