What is Permanent Alimony?

One form of spousal support that can be awarded when a long-term marriage ends is permanent alimony. Permanent alimony is most commonly awarded when one spouse made all or most of the income for a couple that was married for a substantial length of time, usually more than ten years. Permanent alimony is intended to support a spouse who would not be able to maintain their established standard of living without regular support from the breadwinning spouse.

In certain circumstances, permanent alimony can be awarded in medium length marriages when the difference between incomes is substantial enough to merit constant support or when a strict prenuptial agreement is in place. Permanent alimony is almost never awarded in short-term marriages unless the spouse seeking alimony has been injured or diagnosed with an incurable disease that does not allow that spouse to support themselves. In this case the spouse seeking permanent alimony must show that the other spouse has the ability to pay the amount of spousal support requested.

Learn whether you might qualify for permanent spousal support by sitting down with a family law attorney in your city of residence.