# What is a clean break order in divorce?

> Quick answer · Last updated 4 July 2026

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## In short

A court order ending future financial claims between ex-spouses — including spousal maintenance — after divorce. Without it, either party could claim years later unless remarried.

Clean break is not automatic — must be approved by the court.

Child maintenance is separate and cannot always be ended by clean break.

See divorce finances guide.

## Related

- [Divorce finances guide](https://moneyguide.org.uk/family-life/divorce-finances-guide/)

## Primary source

gov.uk/money-property-when-relationship-ends

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Independent UK money guidance from [Money Guide](https://moneyguide.org.uk). Information only — not regulated financial advice.