Florida Alimony Laws 2026
Complete guide to spousal support in Florida
Florida Alimony at a Glance
Types Available
Maximum Duration
Up to marriage length; permanent for 17+ years
How Courts Calculate
Needs-based, income considered
Understanding Florida Alimony Law
In Florida, alimony (also called spousal support or spousal maintenance) is financial support paid by one spouse to the other following a divorce or separation. Florida recently reformed alimony law in 2023, eliminating permanent alimony.
Florida courts generally consider the following factors when determining alimony:
- The length of the marriage
- Each spouse's income and earning capacity
- The standard of living established during the marriage
- Each spouse's age, health, and employability
- Contributions to the marriage (including homemaking)
- Child custody arrangements and their impact on earning capacity
- Marital misconduct or fault (in some cases)
Types of Alimony in Florida
Bridge-the-gap: Available under Florida law based on the specific circumstances of each case.
Rehabilitative: Designed to support a spouse while they gain education or job skills to become self-sufficient. Typically has a defined end date tied to the completion of a training program or return to the workforce.
Durational: Available under Florida law based on the specific circumstances of each case.
Permanent: Ongoing support with no set end date, typically awarded in long marriages where one spouse has limited earning capacity. May be modified or terminated upon changed circumstances.
Duration of Alimony
In Florida, the duration of alimony awards is: Up to marriage length; permanent for 17+ years.
Modifying or Terminating Alimony
In most cases, alimony in Florida can be modified or terminated upon a showing of a substantial change in circumstances, such as:
- Significant increase or decrease in either party's income
- Recipient spouse's remarriage
- Recipient spouse's cohabitation with a new partner (in many states)
- Either party's retirement
- Death of either party
Estimate Your Florida Alimony
Use our calculator to get a rough estimate based on Florida guidelines.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws change frequently. Consult a licensed Florida family law attorney for advice specific to your situation.