Which of the following would NOT justify a modification of maintenance?

A modification of maintenance, which usually refers to spousal support or alimony, typically requires a significant change in circumstances that can warrant a change in the established payment terms. The correct interpretation hinges on the nature of the changes in financial circumstances affecting either party.

An increase in the obligor's income often provides grounds for modification because it may indicate that the obligor has greater financial ability to pay maintenance. Conversely, a decrease in the obligee's income would also justify a modification, as it reflects a change in the obligee's financial circumstances that may necessitate an increase in support to maintain their standard of living. A substantial decrease in the obligor's income could warrant a reduction in the amount of maintenance paid, as it shows that the obligor is no longer able to afford the previous payment level.

However, an increase in the obligee's expenses does not directly impact the ability of the obligor to pay maintenance, which is why it does not justify a modification on its own. In essence, modifications are typically tied to income shifts rather than changes in expenses alone, unless those expenses directly correlate to a significant change in financial need. Therefore, the increase in the obligee's expenses alone does not provide sufficient grounds to adjust the maintenance arrangement.