Rule of 65

Spousal Support

A guideline in some jurisdictions suggesting permanent alimony when payor's age plus marriage years equals or exceeds 65.

Example

Under the Rule of 65, his age of 50 plus 17-year marriage qualified for permanent alimony consideration.

Canadian Equivalent

In Canada, this is referred to as Rule of 65 (referenced in SSAG for indefinite support eligibility — age + years of marriage ≥ 65).

Jurisdiction Variations

MASSACHUSETTS

Alimony Reform Act durational limits

Massachusetts uses specific percentages of marriage length for alimony duration, not Rule of 65

permanent-alimonydurational-alimonyalimony