Marriage length categories
Florida classifies marriages by length, and the category affects what alimony is available and for how long.
- Short-term marriage, less than 10 years
- Moderate-term marriage, 10 years up to 20 years
- Long-term marriage, 20 years or more
The four (now three) forms of alimony
After the 2023 reform, three forms of alimony remain available in Florida.
- Bridge-the-gap alimony, short-term assistance to transition from married to single life. Capped at 2 years. Cannot be modified
- Rehabilitative alimony, supports a specific plan to acquire education, training, or work experience. Requires a written plan. Capped at 5 years
- Durational alimony, fixed-duration support for any marriage length. Length capped at 50% of short-term, 60% of moderate-term, and 75% of long-term marriages (in years)
Need and ability to pay
Florida courts must make two threshold findings before awarding any alimony: that the requesting spouse has an actual need for support, and that the other spouse has the ability to pay. Both findings are required; one without the other defeats the request.
Factors courts weigh
Florida Statute 61.08 lists the factors courts weigh when determining the type and amount of alimony, including the standard of living established during the marriage, the duration of the marriage, the age and physical and emotional condition of each spouse, the financial resources of each spouse, and contributions to the marriage including childcare and homemaking.