Alimony, also called spousal support or maintenance, is a financial obligation one spouse owes to the other after a divorce or separation. Alimony is a court-ordered payment that can be used to help an ex-spouse maintain their lifestyle after a divorce. This payment can last for either a set amount of time or indefinitely, as long as the conditions of the order are met. Alimony will only be awarded if the court finds that it is fair and necessary.

Who Can Obtain Alimony in Florida?

In Florida, alimony can be awarded to either the husband or the wife. However, in order to obtain it, you must meet certain eligibility requirements.

Recipient Must Demonstrate They are Unable to Support Themselves Financially

In most cases, the party seeking alimony must demonstrate that they are unable to financially support themselves without receiving it. There are a few exceptions to this, but in general, the requesting party must meet specific criteria in order to receive it.

First, the party that wants to receive support has to prove that they have insufficient income or assets to support themselves without outside help. If the recipient has other dependents, such as children, who may affect their ability to work and earn more, their need for support may be greater.

In addition, if they are ill or unable to fend for themselves for any reason, their need for support may also be greater, and alimony may be granted.

On the other hand, if the recipient has demonstrated that they will be able to become self-sufficient within a certain amount of time, then permanent alimony may not be necessary. They may, in this instance, be awarded alimony with a time limit.