New Jersey Alimony Laws 2026
Complete guide to spousal support in New Jersey
New Jersey Alimony at a Glance
Types Available
Maximum Duration
Open duration for 20+ year marriages; limited for shorter
How Courts Calculate
Up to 1/3 of income difference
Understanding New Jersey Alimony Law
In New Jersey, alimony (also called spousal support or spousal maintenance) is financial support paid by one spouse to the other following a divorce or separation. New Jersey eliminated "permanent alimony" in 2014 reform.
New Jersey 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 New Jersey
Open Duration: Available under New Jersey law based on the specific circumstances of each case.
Limited Duration: Available under New Jersey 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.
Reimbursement: Compensates a spouse for financial contributions made to the other spouse's education or career advancement during the marriage.
Duration of Alimony
In New Jersey, the duration of alimony awards is: Open duration for 20+ year marriages; limited for shorter.
Modifying or Terminating Alimony
In most cases, alimony in New Jersey 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 New Jersey Alimony
Use our calculator to get a rough estimate based on New Jersey guidelines.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws change frequently. Consult a licensed New Jersey family law attorney for advice specific to your situation.