How Long Does Spousal Support Last?

Spousal support, often called alimony, isn’t a one-size-fits-all arrangement. Some payments last only a few months, while others continue for years or even indefinitely.

In Michigan, spousal support is designed to provide financial stability after divorce, but it’s not automatic. Courts evaluate each case individually, considering factors like income disparity, earning potential, and the standard of living during the marriage. Whether support is temporary or long-term depends on these details.

Key Factors That Matter with Spousal Support in MI

There’s no fixed timeline for spousal support in Michigan. Instead, courts determine how long payments last based on multiple factors. The goal is to ensure financial fairness while encouraging both spouses to become self-sufficient.

One of the biggest factors is the length of the marriage. Short-term marriages—those lasting just a few years—result in little or no spousal support. If awarded, payments are often temporary. Long-term marriages, typically those lasting ten years or more, increase the likelihood of longer support periods, especially if one spouse was financially dependent.

The type of spousal support ordered by the court also affects duration:

• Temporary Support: Paid during the divorce process and ends once the divorce is finalized.
• Rehabilitative Support: Designed to help a lower-earning spouse become financially independent. This often applies when one spouse needs time to complete school, obtain job training, or secure employment. Payments last until the recipient reaches financial stability.
• Permanent Support: Rare in Michigan but may be awarded in long-term marriages where one spouse is unable to become self-sufficient due to age, disability, or chronic illness. These payments may continue indefinitely or until a significant life change occurs.

Another key factor is income and financial needs. Courts examine each spouse’s earning capacity, existing assets, and expenses. If both parties have similar incomes or the lower-earning spouse can maintain a reasonable standard of living without assistance, support may not be awarded or may be short-term. However, if one spouse earns significantly less or has sacrificed career opportunities to support the marriage, they may receive payments for a longer period.

While Michigan is a no-fault divorce state, meaning that neither spouse has to prove wrongdoing to get divorced, fault can sometimes impact spousal support decisions. If one spouse engaged in misconduct—such as infidelity or financial waste—the court may take that into account when determining the amount or length of support. However, fault is rarely the deciding factor and is only considered in specific cases.

When Does Spousal Support End?

In most cases, spousal support has a court-ordered end date. The judge determines how long payments will continue based on factors like the length of the marriage and financial circumstances. Some agreements include a specific number of months or years, while others are left open-ended but still subject to modification.

A major life event that typically ends support is the remarriage of the receiving spouse. Michigan courts generally assume that remarriage eliminates the need for financial assistance from a former spouse. Once the receiving spouse remarries, the paying spouse can petition the court to terminate support.

Beyond remarriage, significant life changes can also lead to spousal support ending earlier than expected. If the paying spouse experiences a job loss or major financial hardship, they may request a modification or termination. Similarly, if the receiving spouse becomes financially independent—whether through employment, an inheritance, or another change in circumstances—the paying spouse can ask the court to review the order.

Another common reason for spousal support to end is cohabitation with a new partner. Some agreements specifically state that payments stop if the receiving spouse moves in with a new romantic partner. Courts may view cohabitation as a sign that financial support is no longer necessary, especially if the new partner contributes to household expenses. However, proving cohabitation can sometimes be a challenge, and the paying spouse may need to present evidence to the court.

Spousal support almost always ends upon the death of either spouse. Unless the divorce agreement includes a provision stating that support continues after the paying spouse’s death (such as payments coming from an estate or life insurance policy), the obligation automatically ends. If you’re negotiating spousal support, it’s worth discussing whether life insurance should be part of the agreement to ensure financial security in case of an unexpected death.

Know Your Spousal Support Options

There’s no universal answer to “how long does spousal support last”. The duration depends on several factors, and while some payments are temporary and end after a set period, others may continue for years—though even long-term support can be modified under the right circumstances.

If you’re paying or receiving spousal support, it’s important to understand your rights. If you’ve had a significant change in income, remarried, or believe support is no longer necessary, you may have the option to modify or terminate payments. However, this isn’t automatic—you’ll need to petition the court and provide evidence supporting your request.

Because every case is different, working with an attorney can help you navigate Michigan’s spousal support laws and ensure you’re making informed decisions. Whether you’re negotiating an initial support agreement or trying to make changes to an existing order, legal guidance can help you secure a fair outcome.

If you have questions about your spousal support situation, don’t wait—talk to a Michigan family law attorney at the Law Offices of Kevin R. Lynch P.L.C. today to understand your options.