Spousal support, also called alimony, helps one spouse maintain financial stability after a divorce. The length of support depends on several factors, including the length of the marriage and each spouse’s economic situation.
Types of alimony in New Jersey
New Jersey recognizes several types of alimony, and the length of payments depends on which type applies.
- Open durational alimony: This arrangement usually applies to marriages lasting 20 years or more. It does not have a set end date, but payments stop when the receiving spouse remarries, lives with a new partner, or when either spouse passes away. In some cases, the state may end or adjust payments if the paying spouse retires or faces financial hardship.
- Limited duration alimony: Marriages that lasted less than 20 years generally qualify for this type of alimony. Payments continue for a set time, but they cannot last longer than the marriage itself. However, payments may end sooner if the receiving spouse becomes financially independent.
- Rehabilitative alimony: This type helps a spouse gain education or job training to become self-sufficient. The payments continue until the receiving spouse completes the necessary training or education. The court usually requires a detailed plan showing how long the process will take.
- Reimbursement alimony: This kind of alimony applies when one spouse supported the other through education or career training during the marriage. Payments help compensate for that support. It usually ends once the agreed amount is paid in full.
New Jersey no longer has “permanent alimony.” However, open durational alimony could last a person’s lifetime and could essentially be “permanent.”
Factors that affect alimony duration
When determining alimony duration, the court considers the length of the marriage, each spouse’s income and earning potential, and the standard of living during the marriage. If the receiving spouse remarries or cohabitates with a new partner, payments may stop. Retirement or financial hardship may also lead to changes in alimony.
Spousal support does not last forever in most cases. The goal is to help the lower-earning spouse adjust to a new financial situation. Understanding the different types of alimony and the factors that affect duration can help a person prepare for life after divorce.