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There’s more than one type of alimony

On Behalf of | Dec 30, 2020 | Divorce

When it comes to alimony, California residents may think that there’s only one type of alimony that exists. However, there are actually several different types of alimony that a judge could award to one party in the marriage. The type that’s awarded depends on what type of premarital agreements were in place or what the court ordered after the marriage. If someone in the marriage must pay alimony, knowing what type they have to pay can help them be financially prepared.

What types of alimony might people have to pay?

Permanent alimony is the type of alimony that continues on indefinitely or until some sort of major event happens. This type of alimony is usually paid in a marriage where one spouse didn’t and will likely never work at a level where they’ll be able to support themselves.

Rehabilitative alimony is alimony that’s paid for a certain period of time. It’s paid out to a spouse who wants to get themselves to a point where they can be self-sufficient. They may need to receive support while they go back to school to get an education or take a course to improve their skills, for instance.

Term alimony is similar to rehabilitative alimony in that it’s only paid out for a short period of time before it’s cut off. It’s usually paid out in short-term marriages. Reimbursement alimony is alimony that repays a spouse for the support and time they gave to the other spouse while that spouse got a degree or built a career that made them successful.

How can someone find out if they’ll likely have to pay alimony?

People who are trying to determine if they’ll need to pay alimony and what type it will be may benefit from working with an attorney. A lawyer can help them figure out what their financial responsibilities will be after a divorce.