Not all married Florida couples live happily ever after. If you and your spouse are going through a divorce, you will want to know what types of alimony are available to you in the state. There are six different options.
Permanent alimony
Permanent alimony is available when the marriage lasted over 17 years. It’s exactly as it sounds: One spouse receives alimony payments from the other for the rest of their life. This type of spousal support is typically in place when one spouse gave up working for the sake of staying in the home to raise the children and tend to the household. Permanently alimony provides the spouse an amount of money that allows them to enjoy the same standard of living as during the marriage.
Temporary alimony
Temporary alimony is one of the most common types available. It’s awarded to the spouse with the lower income to allow them to cover important expenses while the divorce is ongoing, and payments stop once the divorce is final.
Durational alimony
This type of alimony is awarded to allow spouses to maintain the standard of living they had during the marriage. Unlike permanent alimony, it doesn’t last longer than the duration of the marriage. It’s typically awarded during divorces involving short- and medium-duration marriages.
Lump-sum alimony
Although alimony is usually thought of as monthly payments to the supported spouse, lump sum alimony involves a single lump-sum payment. This frees up the supporting spouse from having to continuously pay.
Rehabilitative alimony
Another type of alimony available for both short- and long-term marriages is rehabilitative alimony. If a spouse had to stop working during the marriage or was unable to complete their education, it serves as a means for them to be better prepared to return to the workforce by gaining a degree or vocational certificate.
Bridge-the-gap alimony
This type of alimony is awarded to help a spouse meet their short-term financial needs. It allows them to get an education or pay for living expenses.
If you’re getting a divorce, it’s important to determine which type of alimony is appropriate for you or your spouse. You can then work on negotiations to include it in the divorce settlement.