Alimony

Massachusetts Alimony

What to Know About Spousal Support in Massachusetts

Spousal support — commonly referred to as alimony in Massachusetts—is governed by the Massachusetts Alimony Reform Act of 2011. The law outlines when and how different alimony orders may be awarded during or after a Massachusetts divorce. Alimony can be temporary, transitional, rehabilitative, reimbursement-based, or long term. It is designed to provide financial support to a spouse who demonstrates an economic need, provided the paying spouse has the ability to pay. Importantly, alimony is treated separately from child support.

Types of Alimony in Massachusetts

The Massachusetts statute recognizes several types of alimony, including:

Calculating Alimony Payments

The type, amount, and duration of alimony payments depend on a number of statutory factors, such as:

Massachusetts law provides a formula to help determine how long alimony could be paid, based on the number of months married (measured from the marriage date to the date of service of the divorce summons):

• Married less than 5 years: up to 50% of the number of months married,
• More than 5 but less than 10 years: up to 60%,
• More than 10 but less than 15 years: up to 70%,
• More than 15 but less than 20 years: up to 80%,
• 20 years or more: alimony may continue until the payor reaches full Social Security retirement age.

Modifying or Ending Alimony

Life circumstances often change after a divorce. A significant or material change of circumstances—such as job loss, retirement, or remarriage of the recipient—can lead to requests for modifying alimony. Massachusetts courts allow either party to seek modification of existing alimony orders when such a material change is proven.

Why Legal Guidance Matters

Whether you expect to pay or receive spousal support, a skilled Massachusetts alimony attorney can help protect your financial interests. Our firm represents both payors and recipients, ensuring that the correct type of alimony—be it general term alimony, rehabilitative alimony, transitional alimony, or reimbursement alimony—is appropriately applied and that payments reflect the law.

To learn more about spousal support, alimony modification, or how the Massachusetts Alimony Reform Act may apply to your situation, call us today at 978-851-2291 or contact us online to schedule a consultation.

For your convenience, we offer flexible appointments at our Tewksbury office, conveniently located near Route 93 and Route 495. We proudly serve clients in Middlesex and Essex County.

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Additional Considerations in Massachusetts Alimony Cases

Alimony is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Courts take into account every detail of a couple’s financial and personal circumstances. Some additional considerations include:

Strategic Planning for Your Financial Future

Whether you are negotiating a divorce settlement or considering a petition to modify alimony, planning ahead is crucial. Couples and individuals can benefit from:

Preparing for Life After a Massachusetts Divorce

Divorce is not only a legal process but a financial transition. The right alimony orders can make the difference between financial hardship and stability. Our experienced team helps clients plan for future needs, including:

Take the Next Step

Every Massachusetts divorce presents unique challenges. Whether you are seeking general term alimony, looking to adjust existing alimony payments, or defending against an unfair modification request, having the right representation is key. We work diligently to protect our clients’ financial well-being and to achieve the best possible outcome in every case.

Contact our team today to discuss your specific circumstances and to learn how Massachusetts law applies to your situation. We are ready to help you plan for a more secure future.