Permanent Alimony
Ongoing support with no set end date, typically awarded after long marriages or when recipient cannot become self-supporting.
Example
Permanent alimony was ordered after their 30-year marriage given her age and health issues.
Canadian Equivalent
In Canada, this is referred to as Indefinite Spousal Support (SSAG provides ranges; courts may order indefinite support for long marriages).
Jurisdiction Variations
FLORIDA
Abolished (2023)
Florida eliminated permanent alimony in 2023 reform (SB 1416)
NEW-JERSEY
Open Durational Alimony (replaced permanent for marriages 20+ years)
New Jersey's 2014 reform replaced 'permanent' with 'open durational' alimony
TEXAS
Not available (max 10 years)
Texas spousal maintenance is limited to a maximum of 10 years; no permanent alimony
MASSACHUSETTS
Indefinite Alimony (for marriages 20+ years only)
Massachusetts' 2012 Alimony Reform Act limits permanent alimony to marriages over 20 years
Related Terms
alimonydurational-alimonyalimony-modification