Alimony Types: Temporary, Rehabilitative, Long-Term

Alimony, also called spousal support or maintenance, is money one spouse pays the other during or after a divorce. Not every divorce includes it. Whether it is awarded, how much, and for how long are decided under state law, and states use different names and rules. This guide explains the main types of alimony in general terms so you can follow the conversation with a lawyer. It does not estimate what anyone would pay or receive.

Why alimony exists

Courts generally see alimony as a way to address an economic imbalance created by the marriage or its end. For example, one spouse may have stayed home with children or moved for the other's job, and earned less as a result. Alimony is usually separate from child support, which is for the children, and separate from the division of property and debts.

Divorce and support cases are handled in state courts. The USAGov courts page lists family court among the state and territory courts and links to the courts in your area.

Temporary alimony

Temporary alimony (sometimes called support "pendente lite," meaning while the case is pending) is paid while the divorce is in progress. It helps keep things stable until the final judgment.

Key points:

• It is usually requested early in the case, often by a motion.
• It generally ends when the divorce is final. At that point, the court decides whether any longer-term support is ordered.
• An order for temporary support does not mean support will continue after the divorce.

Rehabilitative alimony

Rehabilitative alimony is meant to help a spouse become self-supporting. It is tied to a period of time or a plan, such as finishing a degree, getting job training, or re-entering the workforce after years at home.

Key points:

• Courts in some states expect a realistic plan showing how the support will be used.
• It is usually limited in time.
• If the plan changes or is not followed, the paying spouse may be able to ask the court to review the order, depending on state law.

Long-term or permanent alimony

Long-term alimony (sometimes called permanent or indefinite alimony) continues without a fixed end date, or for a long period. Courts have generally considered it in long marriages, or where one spouse is unlikely to become self-supporting because of age, health, or other reasons.

Key points:

• Several states have limited or changed long-term alimony in recent years. Whether it is available, and for which marriages, depends on current state law.
• Even "permanent" support often ends on certain events, such as the death of either spouse, and in many states the remarriage of the recipient.
• It may be modified if circumstances change significantly, depending on the state and the terms of the order.

Other types you may hear about

Depending on the state, you may also hear these terms:

• Bridge-the-gap alimony. Short-term help with specific needs during the move from married to single life.
• Reimbursement alimony. Support that repays a spouse for contributions, such as paying for the other spouse's education.
• Lump-sum alimony. A fixed total amount, paid at once or in set installments, that usually cannot be changed later.
• Durational alimony. Support for a set period, which some states tie to the length of the marriage.

Not every state uses these labels. The same idea may have a different name where you live.

What courts often consider

Each state sets its own factors. Many look at similar questions:

• How long the marriage lasted.
• Each spouse's income, earning ability, education, and work history.
• The standard of living during the marriage.
• Each spouse's age and physical and emotional health.
• Contributions to the marriage, including caring for children and the home.
• The property each spouse receives in the divorce.
• The time and training needed for a spouse to become self-supporting.

Some states use formulas or guidelines, especially for temporary support. Others leave more to the judge's discretion. Fault, such as adultery, matters in some states and not in others.

Agreements and taxes

Spouses can often agree on alimony themselves, in a settlement or a prenuptial agreement. Courts generally review such agreements, and state law decides when they are enforced.

Tax rules for alimony have changed over time and can depend on when the divorce or agreement was finalized. Ask a tax professional or lawyer how the rules apply to you.

Getting help

A family lawyer can explain which types of support exist in your state and how courts there tend to approach them. Browse family law attorneys or read our other guides on legal topics. The USAGov legal aid page lists free and low-cost legal help programs; services vary by location and income.

Frequently asked questions

Is alimony awarded in every divorce?

No. Many divorces have no alimony at all. Whether it is awarded depends on state law and the facts of the case.

Can alimony be changed later?

Often, if circumstances change significantly, but some types, such as lump-sum alimony, generally cannot. The order and state law decide.

Is alimony the same as child support?

No. Alimony is support for a spouse. Child support is for the children and follows separate rules.

Does remarriage end alimony?

In many states, the recipient's remarriage ends certain types of alimony. Check the order and your state's law.

This page is general information, not legal advice. Laws change and every case is different — talk to a licensed attorney about your situation.