Ways to Reduce or End Alimony

The paying spouse is suddenly and involuntarily unemployed

• An illness makes it harder for the paying spouse to work
• The recipient spouse is living with someone as a couple, not roommates (needs to be of a 
• permanent nature with the ex-spouse and new partner sharing living expenses)

Except for the case of lump sum alimony described above, most alimony payments end when either the ex-spouse dies or the recipient spouse remarries.

Less Successful Ways to Reduce or End Alimony
The following events are not likely to sway a judge to eliminate alimony:

• Declaring bankruptcy
• Inflation or an increase in the cost of living
• The paying spouse voluntarily or deliberately loses a job or sees a reduction in income

But you may think to yourself, “What if I stop paying alimony?” That would not be advisable, as you would be in direct violation of your court order. Rules governing whether alimony can be reduced or terminated vary from state to state. You can get more details from your attorney.

• Deciding factor during alimony?
• Considering the facts and circumstances,
• Inflation rate
• Social status,
• Educational qualifications,
• Background of the parties