Part of your divorce agreement may have included an award of alimony. One of the most important things you can do post-divorce is to make financial preparations for when that alimony comes to an end. It is important in your preparations that you fully understand the terms of your alimony so that you know exactly when alimony will end. Each state and every divorce is different, so the terms will be specific to you and your situation. It is important that you speak with your attorney to be sure that you fully understand the alimony arrangement. There are different types of alimony arrangements in Florida. Below we will look at some of the types of alimony and expected end of alimony. Remember to speak with your attorney to know for certain which type of alimony you may be or already have been awarded.
Temporary Alimony
Temporary alimony is, as the name suggests, only for a short time. Judges often award this for the duration of the divorce proceedings. Sometimes they replace it with a different type of alimony after the couple finalizes their divorce.
Bridge-the-Gap Alimony
Similarly, bridge-the-gap alimony is temporary in nature. This type of spousal support is to help the recipient get on their feet. It is typically only for a short period of time and is there to help the recipient to make a smooth transition from being married to single. Bridge-the-gap alimony cannot exceed two years after the divorce. The final divorce decree should clearly state the exact duration and end date of this type of alimony.
Rehabilitative Alimony
Rehabilitative alimony is unique in that it assists the recipient in financing their education, job training, job certification, or other career-enhancing endeavors. This is awarded so that the recipient may better support themselves post-divorce. The timeframe should be stated within the award agreement.
Durational Alimony
Durational alimony is intended to provide economic assistance to the recipient for a specified amount of time. It can be a short or moderate period of time depending on the specific factors of the marriage. Durational alimony terminates up the death of either party or upon the remarriage of the recipient. The award may be modified or terminated if there is a substantial change in circumstances. The length of the award cannot exceed the length of the marriage.
Permanent Alimony
The court awards permanent alimony to financially assist the recipient in a manner established during the marriage. Only if the recipient is unable to financially meet their own needs following the dissolution of the marriage. Certainly, there are many factors that go into determining that permanent alimony is warranted. The court terminates permanent alimony upon the death of either party or upon the remarriage of the recipient. Much like durational alimony, an award of permanent alimony can be changed or terminated if there is a substantial change in circumstances.