Crystal Wright | September 29, 2025 | Family Law
Divorce often brings financial challenges, especially when one spouse has relied on the other for support. This is where alimony, or spousal support, comes into play. But how does alimony work in Georgia, and what should you expect if it becomes part of your divorce case? This article breaks down the basics, from types of alimony to the factors courts consider when awarding it.
What Is Alimony?
Alimony, also called spousal support, is financial support that one spouse pays to the other after a separation or divorce. Its purpose is to reduce unfair financial hardship and help the supported spouse maintain stability.
Unlike child support, which is based on specific guidelines, alimony in Georgia is highly discretionary. Courts decide whether to award it, how much, and for how long, based on the unique circumstances of each case.
Types of Alimony in Georgia
Georgia law recognizes several forms of spousal support, each serving a different purpose:
- Temporary alimony: Paid while divorce proceedings are pending to help the lower-earning spouse cover immediate expenses.
- Permanent alimony: Awarded in rare cases, often involving long-term marriages where a spouse cannot become self-sufficient.
- Periodic alimony: Paid regularly for a set time, usually to allow the recipient to gain employment or education.
- Lump-sum alimony: A one-time or structured payment, often tied to property settlements.
Each type of alimony is designed to address different financial needs during and after a divorce.
Factors Courts Consider When Awarding Alimony
Georgia judges have wide discretion when deciding on alimony awards.
They evaluate factors such as:
- The length of the marriage
- Each spouse’s standard of living during the marriage
- Financial resources and the earning capacity of both spouses
- Age and health of each spouse
- Contributions to the marriage, including child care and homemaking
- Time needed for the recipient to gain training or education
- Marital conduct, including adultery or abandonment
These considerations allow the court to tailor alimony orders to the specific situation of each couple.
How Long Does Alimony Last in Georgia?
The duration of alimony depends on the type awarded and the facts of the case.
For example:
- Temporary alimony ends when the divorce is finalized.
- Periodic or rehabilitative alimony usually continues until the recipient becomes self-sufficient.
- Permanent alimony is rare but may last indefinitely, often reserved for long marriages with significant disparities in earning potential.
In most cases, alimony ends upon remarriage of the recipient, death of either party, or as outlined in the court’s order.
Modifying or Terminating Alimony
Unless the divorce decree specifies otherwise, periodic alimony can be modified if circumstances change. For example, a paying spouse who loses their job or retires may ask the court to reduce payments.
However, lump-sum alimony is usually final and cannot be modified once ordered. Failing to seek court approval before stopping payments can lead to legal consequences like wage garnishment.
Misconduct and Its Impact on Alimony
Georgia law allows judges to consider marital misconduct, such as adultery or desertion, when deciding alimony. If a spouse committed adultery and that conduct led to the divorce, they may be barred from receiving alimony. This factor makes Georgia unique compared to some other states, where fault is not considered in spousal support decisions.
Tax Treatment of Alimony in Georgia
Following changes in federal law, alimony payments are no longer tax-deductible for the paying spouse, and the receiving spouse does not report them as taxable income. This rule applies to divorces finalized after December 31, 2018. Georgia follows this federal standard, so couples should account for the tax implications when negotiating alimony terms.
Contact the Georgia Divorce Lawyer at Crystal Wright Law, LLC for Help Today
Alimony can have a significant impact on your financial future after divorce. Whether you expect to pay or receive support, it’s important to understand how Georgia law applies to your case.
At Crystal Wright Law, LLC, we help clients navigate alimony issues with compassion and experience. Contact our Georgia divorce lawyer today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about your options.
To learn more and get the help you deserve, contact our legal team at Crystal Wright Law and schedule your consultation today.
We have offices in Atlanta and Lawrenceville, Georgia.
Crystal Wright Law – Atlanta Office
1718-1720 Peachtree St NW, Suite 920, Atlanta, GA 30309
(404)-594-2143
Crystal Wright Law – Lawrenceville Office
440 S. Perry Street, Suite 105, Lawrenceville, GA 30046
(404)-649-5554
