Will I Lose My Alimony Payments if I Remarry?

If you receive alimony, you may wonder how remarriage could affect your payments. The short answer? It depends on the type of alimony and the laws in your state. Some forms of alimony end immediately upon remarriage, while others may continue under certain conditions. Let’s break it down.

How Remarriage Affects Alimony Payments

1. Type of Alimony Matters

The effect of remarriage on alimony payments largely depends on the type of alimony awarded in your divorce.

Type of Alimony

Effect of Remarriage

Long-term Alimony
Usually terminates upon remarriage.
Rehabilitative Alimony
May continue if financial need remains
Bridge-the-Gap Alimony
Typically unaffected unless specified
Lump-Sum Alimony
Not affected by remarriage
Durational Alimony
May continue unless otherwise stated

2. State Laws on Alimony & Remarriage

• Some states automatically terminate alimony when the recipient remarries.
• Others require the paying spouse to petition the court for modification.
• If the new spouse has substantial income, a judge may adjust or stop payments.

3. Cohabitation Can Impact Alimony

• Even if you don’t remarry, living with a new partner oother than a relative could lead to reduced or terminated alimony.
• Courts may consider financial support, shared expenses, and length of cohabitation.

4. Prenuptial & Divorce Agreements

• Some divorce agreements include clauses regarding the termination of alimony upon remarriage.
• If your divorce decree specifies continued payments, remarriage may not affect them.

What to Do If You’re Considering Remarriage

Steps to Protect Your Alimony Payments

1. Review Your Divorce Decree – Check for specific terms regarding remarriage.
2. Understand Your State Laws – Each state has different alimony rules.
3. Consult a Family Law Attorney – Get legal advice before making any financial decisions.
4. Avoid Financial Dependence on a New Spouse – Shared income can impact alimony eligibility.

Final Thoughts

If you’re receiving alimony, getting remarried may affect or terminate your payments, depending on the type of alimony, state laws, and your financial circumstances. Before tying the knot, consult a family law attorney to fully understand your legal and financial rights.

Thinking about remarriage? Take the time to assess how it could impact your financial future.