Florida no longer awards permanent alimony in divorce cases filed on or after July 1, 2023. Senate Bill 1416 changed Florida’s spousal support rules and replaced lifetime alimony with limited forms of support. These rules can affect how much support a spouse receives and how long payments last, making the type of alimony an important issue in many Florida divorces.
How Florida’s new alimony rules work
Florida recognizes four types of alimony. Temporary alimony supports a spouse during divorce. Bridge-the-gap alimony covers short-term transition costs for up to two years. Rehabilitative alimony may fund education or training for up to five years. Durational alimony offers financial support for a set period. The length of the award generally depends on how long the marriage lasted.
The length of the marriage sets the limit for durational alimony:
- Under 10 years: The limit is up to 50% of the marriage length.
- 10 to 20 years: The limit is up to 60% of the marriage length.
- 20 years or more: The limit is up to 75% of the marriage length.
Courts consider financial need, ability to pay, income, financial resources, earning capacity and the marital standard of living. Monthly alimony generally may not exceed 35% of the difference between the spouses’ net incomes. Retirement or a significant change in financial circumstances may be grounds for modifying an existing order. Under Florida law, the recipient’s remarriage generally terminates periodic alimony. A supportive relationship may also support a reduction or termination of support. Unlike permanent alimony, these forms of support have set time limits. This gives both spouses a clearer idea of their future financial obligations.
What happens to alimony orders from before 2023?
The 2023 reform did not end permanent alimony orders issued before July 1, 2023. These orders remain in place unless a court later changes or ends them. Retirement, major financial changes, remarriage or a supportive relationship may support a modification. The law change alone does not change an older order. Courts review the original order and current circumstances before deciding whether a change is warranted.
What the 2023 reform means for your divorce case
Florida’s 2023 alimony reform does not eliminate spousal support. It replaces open-ended obligations with defined timelines and income-based limits. For anyone going through a divorce or considering a modification of an existing order, how these rules apply will depend on the specific length of the marriage, each party’s income, and the financial circumstances involved. A Florida family law attorney can help evaluate those details before a final agreement is reached.