No one ever wants to get separated or divorced, but sometimes, things just don’t work out. Fortunately, alimony is a court-ordered way for one party to get the support they need for children or living expenses. If you’re going through a divorce, and you’re forced to pay alimony, here are a few facts to help you along the way.
Both Men and Women Can Receive Alimony
A common misconception about alimony is that it only goes to the female and that it’s only considered if there are children, but this simply isn’t true. Both men and women can receive alimony, and there’s no requirement to have children to get alimony. However, only 3 percent of men receive this support, even though 40 percent of households have female breadwinners.
Alimony Is Paid in Different Ways
Alimony isn’t a permanent payment, and a court decides how long it’s paid from one former partner to the other. Partners can pay alimony in long-term or limited long-term frequencies, as well as a lump sum. Some long-term payments may also employ a “step down” method, which lowers the amount or frequency of the payments over a predetermined time. Eventually, the court states that the receiving party must become self-supporting in a reasonable amount of time.
Many Factors Impact Who Receives Alimony
In court, a judge decides who receives alimony based on a number of factors. This includes:
- Income
- Education
- Job skills and employability
- Assets
- Primary income
- Secondary income, such as rental properties or investments
- Standard of living or lifestyle
- Reasons for the divorce or separation
- Any disability for spouse or children
- Children’s ages and any special needs
- Length of the marriage
Now that you know a bit more about alimony, you can get your affairs in order and understand how alimony can play a role in divorce proceedings. You should also have an attorney that knows the ins and outs of these cases. Make sure to contact the Figueroa Law Group for all your alimony questions and needs.