How Long Does Alimony Last?

If you’ve been ordered to pay your former spouse alimony, you’re probably wondering how long your obligation will last. Unfortunately, there’s no straightforward answer to this question. There are various types of alimony, and each type lasts for a different amount of time:

• Temporary alimony – If you’ve been ordered to pay temporary alimony, your obligation will end when your divorce is finalized.
• Bridge-the-gap alimony – This type of alimony can be awarded for up to two years to ease the transition from being married to being single.
• Durational alimony – If the court ordered you to pay durational alimony, it would have specified exactly how long you would need to continue making payments, which can’t exceed the amount of time you were married.
• Permanent periodic alimony – If you’ve been ordered to pay permanent periodic alimony, your obligation will continue until your ex-spouse either remarries or passes away. It’s important to note, however, that this type of alimony can sometimes be modified. If your ex-spouse moves in with someone who’s helping to support him or her, or if you enter retirement, for instance, the court may decide to reduce the amount of alimony that you’re required to pay.
• Rehabilitative alimony – You’ll likely have to continue paying this type of alimony until your ex-spouse is able to support him- or herself.

Alimony Assistance for Clients in the Tampa Bay Area

As mentioned above, there are certain circumtances in which alimony awards can be modified. If you need help understanding your alimony obligation or pursuing a modification, you can rely on the skilled divorce attorneys at the Law Offices of Audrey A. Jefferis, P.A. Contact us to request a consultation.