Alimony in New York | What You Need to Know

When it comes to divorce, one of the most complex matters is alimony. Read on to learn more about how alimony is determined in New York:

What are the Different Types of Alimony in New York?

Every marriage is different, as a result, there are different types of support, including:

• Permanent alimony: This stays in effect either indefinitely or until a change occurs in either party’s circumstances. It can be ordered based on the duration of the marriage. A marriage that lasts up to 15 years may see alimony for 15 to 30% of the duration. Between 16 and 20 years, the payments may be ordered between 30 to 50% of the duration. For marriages that last 20 years or more, it may be between 35 to 50% of the duration.
• Rehabilitative alimony: This alimony may be ordered if one spouse puts off their career in order to support the family. This is so that the dependent spouse can receive the education or training they need. 
• Reimbursement alimony: If one spouse financially supports their partner so that they may pursue education or training, this alimony can reimburse them.

How is Alimony Determined?

When a court makes a decision about alimony, they may examine the following factors:

• The income of each spouse.
• Any property that is owned between the two, marital and separate.
• The length of the marriage may lead to longer obligations for support
• The health and age of each spouse can affect the amount of support
• The earning potential of both spouses determines how support should be decided
• If the dependent spouse needs funding to pursue further training or education in order to obtain independence from the other spouse
• If the dependent spouse deferred their life goals in order to support and better the family through the other spouse’s education and success
• If a spouse has an obligation to take care of another family member, this can affect the amount of maintenance

When Do Alimony Payments End?

Spousal support can end for many reasons. Some reasons may include:

• The death of either party
• The remarriage of the receiving party
• A date agreed upon
• A date determined by the court

If you have any questions or concerns about spousal support arrangements in New York, reach out to our firm today.

Contact our experienced Nassau County firm

The Pollack Law Firm, P.C., rated Nassau County’s “BEST” divorce lawyers and proudly serving clients in Nassau and Suffolk County for more than 22 years, is always available to assist and represent parties in divorce, separation and all other matrimonial and family law matters. Contact us online or call today to schedule your complimentary case analysis: (516) 938-3330.