Different types of alimony in Florida

On Behalf of | Apr 18, 2022 | Florida Family Law

The decision to divorce is a major one. One of the biggest worries people have usually involves supporting themselves financially as a single person.

After years of marriage, you have likely grown accustomed to having two incomes, or relying on your spouse’s income to provide for your household, while you focus on raising children or other pursuits. Fortunately, there are various types of alimony available under Florida law, and one might fit your situation.

Florida has 6 different types of alimony

Types of alimony include:

  • Bridge the gap alimony
  • Durational alimony
  • Lump sum alimony
  • Permanent alimony
  • Rehabilitative alimony
  • Temporary alimony

Bridge the gap alimony is only available for 2 years after a divorce and is meant to help you meet your financial needs while you take steps to become financially independent.

The goal of durational alimony is to allow you and your spouse to enjoy the same standard of living as during the marriage. However, the length of durational alimony cannot be longer than your marriage, so if you were only married for 3 years, durational alimony will be available for 3 years.

Lump sum alimony is exactly what it sounds like. Your spouse pays you one alimony payment. This type of alimony is typically awarded when there is an otherwise uneven division of property.

Alimony may depend on the length of your marriage

Permanent alimony is rare, and usually only awarded after a long-term marriage. In Florida, a marriage of 17 years or more is considered a long-term marriage. Permanent alimony is uncommon in short term marriages of 7 years or less or medium length marriages between 7 and 17 years.

If you left a career or quit school because of getting married, rehabilitative alimony may fit your situation. You receive rehabilitative alimony while you finish school or undergo any employment-related training. You must present the court with your specific plan and an estimated time for completion to receive rehabilitative alimony.

Temporary alimony is common no matter the length of your marriage. This type of alimony is paid while your divorce is pending and stops once the divorce is complete.

Worries over being able to pay your living expenses and maintain your same standard of living after a divorce are natural. Divorce attorneys provide personal advice tailored to your situation and help you explore your alimony options.