Alimony
Florida’s 2023 reform rewrote spousal support: four types, hard caps, and no more permanent alimony. Here’s exactly how it works now.
Four types of alimony — and no more permanent alimony
Alimony in Florida is based on one spouse’s need and the other’s ability to pay — not gender. Since the 2023 reform there are four forms:
- Temporary — support while the case is pending.
- Bridge-the-gap — short-term, capped at 2 years, to transition to single life.
- Rehabilitative — tied to a specific, documented plan to become self-supporting.
- Durational — for a set period, capped at 35% of the income difference and limited by the length of the marriage.
What can change it later
Alimony can often be modified on a substantial, material, involuntary change — retirement, disability, inheritance, or a supportive relationship / remarriage. The full mechanics are in our complete guide to alimony.
Straight answers
How long do you have to be married to get alimony?
There’s no fixed minimum, but marriage length heavily shapes the type and duration. Long marriages support longer durational awards; short marriages rarely do.
Is alimony the same as spousal support?
Yes — in Florida they’re the same thing: a payment from one former spouse to the other, separate from child support and property division.
Keep reading
Not sure which way in fits your case?
Tell us your situation and we’ll route you to the right level of help — no hard sell.
Alimony in Florida — on video
From our YouTube channel. See all playlists →