A common concern during a divorce is how long spousal support will last. However, every situation is unique and there is no set timeline.
Spousal support isn’t always guaranteed when a marriage ends. Furthermore, several factors are considered when determining payment amounts and the duration of payments.
What is spousal support?
Spousal support, also known as alimony, is financial assistance one spouse pays to the other when the couple separates or divorces. The purpose of spousal support is to help ensure the lower-earning spouse maintains financial stability as they adjust to life after divorce and does not fall into poverty.
There are generally two types of spousal support:
- Temporary spousal support, which is paid while the divorce is pending
- Long-term (or permanent) spousal support, which may be ordered as part of the final divorce judgment.
However, although the term “permanent” support is used, it doesn’t mean the support will last forever.
One of the biggest determining factors in determining how long spousal support will last is the length of the marriage.
For marriages lasting less than 10 years, the general rule is that support lasts for half the length of the marriage. For example, for a marriage lasting eight years, one spouse may receive support payments for four years. But this is just a guideline, and judges can use their own discretion based on the facts of each case.
Marriages lasting 10 years or longer are considered marriages of “long duration,” and there is typically no automatic end date for spousal support. The judge may retain jurisdiction over the support and allow it to continue until it’s modified, terminated or the court decides otherwise.
Other factors that determine how long spousal support will last include:
- Each spouse’s income and earning capacity
- The couple’s standard of living during the marriage
- Each spouse’s age and health
- Whether one spouse sacrificed career opportunities to support the other spouse’s career or care for children
Whether you’re paying for or receiving spousal support, knowing how long it will last is essential to planning for your financial future. A legal representative can review your situation and help protect your interests throughout the divorce process.