What alimony is
Alimony (spousal support) is financial support one spouse may be ordered to pay the other during or after a divorce. It is not automatic. Alimony is often decided alongside property division and other divorce issues, and the two can affect each other.
How Florida law handles it
Need and ability to pay
A Florida court first looks at whether one spouse has an actual need for support and whether the other spouse has the ability to pay. If both are shown, the court then weighs a range of statutory factors, such as the length of the marriage, the standard of living during the marriage, each spouse’s income and earning capacity, and each spouse’s contributions to the marriage.
Types of alimony after the 2023 reform
In 2023 Florida changed its alimony law and eliminated permanent alimony for new awards. The types of alimony available now are:
- Temporary: support while the divorce case is pending
- Bridge-the-gap: short-term help with the transition from married to single life
- Rehabilitative: support tied to a specific plan, such as education or training, to help a spouse become self-supporting
- Durational: support for a set period, limited by the length of the marriage
Modification
Some alimony awards can be modified later when there is a substantial change in circumstances, such as a significant change in income. Whether a change qualifies depends on the facts and the type of award. More on modifications.
How we help
- Evaluate whether alimony is likely to be an issue in your case
- Prepare accurate financial affidavits and documentation of need or ability to pay
- Negotiate alimony terms in mediation or settlement
- Represent you at hearings or trial
- Seek or oppose modification, or enforce an existing order
Frequently asked questions
Does Florida still have permanent alimony?
No, not for new awards. Florida’s 2023 alimony reform eliminated permanent alimony. The remaining types are temporary, bridge-the-gap, rehabilitative and durational.
How long can durational alimony last?
Durational alimony is limited based on the length of the marriage, so longer marriages can allow a longer award. The court decides the actual length based on the facts.
Can alimony be changed after the divorce?
In many cases, yes, when there has been a substantial change in circumstances. An attorney can review whether your situation qualifies.