Florida’s alimony system has long been regarded as unique. It was often accused of being an anachronism, with “permanent” alimony for homemakers that critics say reflected a bygone era when women often could not support themselves.
As of 2023, that has changed. After almost a decade of trying, lawmakers have finally overhauled the rules and eliminated permanent alimony.
What is important to know about the new rules?
Alimony could be awarded in several different ways in Florida. Bridge-the-gap alimony was designed to help a dependent spouse make the transition to independence, while rehabilitative alimony helps them acquire or regain marketable skills. Durational alimony was used to provide support after marriages of short or moderate length ended, while permanent alimony was awarded for the entirety of an ex-spouse’s life unless they remarried.
SB 1416 eliminates the permanent alimony option. That’s not all it does, however. Aside from now requiring the dependent spouse to prove that they need support and adding sharp new restrictions to both rehabilitative and durational alimony, it also allows paying spouses to end or reduce their existing alimony obligation if they retire or experience other financial changes.
These changes have not pleased everybody. While some payers say that they need relief from permanent alimony obligations, many older women who rely on that support have decried the new legislation as being inherently financially devastating.
In essence, this changes everything about the divorce process when alimony is involved – and it changes the legal landscape for even long-time alimony payers and recipients. Regardless of whether you are hoping to receive spousal support or expect to pay it, it is important to go into your divorce as informed as possible about the new realities.