Types of Alimony Spousal support is typically designated as rehabilitative or permanent alimony. Rehabilitative alimony is alimony paid for a specific period of time, where it is anticipated that all alimony will cease at the end of that period. This form of alimony allows the necessary amount of time for the dependent spouse to be rehabilitated and return to employment. Because this type of alimony requires a prediction of future conduct in an uncertain market, the time period tends to be arbitrary. In a substantial percentage of cases, rehabilitative alimony proves inadequate in allowing the spouse to achieve effective economic self-sufficiency.
Permanent alimony is alimony payable for an indefinite period of time.
Despite its name, it should not be expected that permanent alimony will be paid for life. Rather, the party responsible for paying the alimony must apply to the court for a reduction or elimination of alimony, when appropriate circumstances arise. However, a few states reject the idea of prejudging the amount of time necessary for rehabilitation and therefore award permanent alimony as a matter of course. In addition, substantial changes of circumstances may lead to modification or elimination of spousal support. The effect of cohabitation of the payee spouse with a presumed sexual partner without marriage is a controversial issue.