Florida is in the midst of trying to sort out its legislature for alimony reform. There are currently 2 bills(Senate Bill 943 and House Bill 1248) in the houses of the Florida Legislature. Here are the writings for each bill.
Editor’s Note (Updated for 2026)
This post was originally published in 2015, when Florida was debating proposed alimony reform bills. Florida’s alimony laws have since changed significantly, so the sections below provide a 2026 update to help you understand what applies today and what to do next before you agree to anything.
If you’re reading this now, you’re likely worried about how alimony changes could impact your money, freedom, and future—and you want a clear answer you can trust. Sawicki Law is built for clients who value clear communication, personal attention, and transparent guidance—especially professionals, business owners, and families navigating complex outcomes.
Senate Bill 943
Family Law; Requiring the use of specified factors in calculating alimony pendente lite; providing presumptions concerning alimony awards depending on the duration of marriages; providing for imputation of income in certain circumstances; declaring public policy concerning a child’s interests regarding time sharing in custody and support proceedings; prohibiting a court from changing the duration of an alimony award; providing for motions to advance the trial of certain actions if a specified period has passed since the initial service on the respondent, etc.
House Bill 1248
Family Law; Prohibiting a court from using certain presumptive alimony guidelines in calculating alimony pendente lite; providing presumptions concerning alimony awards depending on the duration of marriages; prohibiting a combined award of alimony and child support from constituting more than a specified percentage of a payor’s net income; creating a presumption that approximately equal time-sharing by both parents is in the best interests of the child; providing that a party may pursue an immediate modification of alimony in certain circumstances, etc.
As you can tell, these bills are to provide clarification and certainty to Florida alimony cases. It will be interesting to see how these bills turn out, but they will provide much needed clarity for alimony payors. Many problems have risen from vague alimony legislature and these bills are an attempt to tackle the confusion.
First, these bills will add a calculation for range of time that alimony be paid for a duration from 25% to 75% of the length of marriage in question. This will help alleviate confusion when deliberating the necessary time needed for alimony payments from the payor, and it will also keep alimony time ranges within reasonable limits.
Secondly, these bills will add a calculation for the range of the amount of alimony necessary to be paid by the payor. This calculation is determined by taking the duration of the marriage, the difference in the parties income’, and a multiplier. At this moment in time, the multiplier has been amended and changed as the bills move through the legislative process. Although the multiplier is being changed, the broad scope of this calculation can have profound effects on alimony reform to the state of Florida.
If you live in Florida and are in need of alimony advice, or any legal advice regarding a divorce, contact Mark E. Sawicki P.A. at Sawickilaw.com. We understand the stress involved with handling divorce and alimony payments, and that is why we are the best choice to deal with all the legal paperwork.
Alimony Reform in Florida: 2026 Update (What the Law Says Now)
Florida now authorizes alimony in four forms: temporary, bridge-the-gap, rehabilitative, and durational. (Permanent alimony is no longer available under the current framework.)
1) The 4 types of alimony you may see in 2026
- Temporary alimony: support while the divorce is pending.
- Bridge-the-gap alimony: helps with short-term transition needs; max 2 years and not modifiable.
- Rehabilitative alimony: support tied to a specific plan (education/training); generally capped at 5 years.
- Durational alimony: support for a set time with strict duration limits tied to marriage length.
2) Durational alimony limits people care about most (time + amount)
How long can it last?
Durational alimony may not exceed:
- 50% of a short-term marriage
- 60% of a moderate-term marriage
- 75% of a long-term marriage
How much can it be?
The amount is generally limited to the recipient’s reasonable need, and it may not exceed 35% of the difference between the parties’ net incomes (whichever is less).
3) Does the updated law apply to my case?
A key dividing line is July 1, 2023. The updated statutory framework applies to initial petitions pending or filed on or after that date.
If you’re dealing with an older final judgment and considering a modification, the timing and facts matter—especially around retirement, supportive relationships, and income changes.
4) Modifying or ending alimony in 2026 (two common triggers)
- Retirement can be a basis to seek modification/termination under the newer framework.
- A supportive relationship (cohabitation or significant support) can also support reduction/termination arguments.
What This Means for You (Quick, Practical Takeaways for 2026)
If you’re worried about committing to an agreement that changes your life for years, the goal is simple: get clarity before you sign.
A fast next-step checklist
- Confirm which law applies (when your case was filed; whether you’re pursuing a modification).
- Document income clearly (especially if pay includes bonuses, commissions, business distributions, or variable income—these details often drive real outcomes for professionals and business owners).
- If you’re considering modification, start gathering proof early (retirement info, medical records if relevant, pay records, and evidence related to supportive relationships).
- Avoid “standard” settlement language if you don’t fully understand duration caps and modification standards—small wording choices can create big consequences.
Why Sawicki Law?
Sawicki Law is intentionally positioned as a personal, client-first practice—for people who want to feel informed, protected, and supported (not processed). Clients work with a team that prioritizes clear communication and practical guidance, especially when the financial stakes are high.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is permanent alimony still available in Florida?
Florida now recognizes temporary, bridge-the-gap, rehabilitative, and durational alimony under the current framework.
How long does bridge-the-gap alimony last?
Bridge-the-gap alimony can last up to 2 years and generally cannot be modified.
What is the maximum duration of durational alimony?
Durational alimony is capped at 50% / 60% / 75% of the marriage length depending on the marriage category (short/moderate/long).
Is there a cap on durational alimony amounts?
Yes—durational alimony is limited to the recipient’s reasonable need and generally cannot exceed 35% of the net-income difference (whichever is less).
Can alimony be reduced if my ex moves in with someone?
It can, depending on the facts. Florida courts may evaluate whether a supportive relationship exists and how it affects the need for support.
Can I modify alimony when I reach retirement age?
Retirement can be a reason to request modification, but the outcome is fact-specific and depends on documentation and circumstances.
Does the current framework apply to all cases automatically?
Not always. The July 1, 2023 timing and your case posture (new case vs. modification) can change what applies.
What should I do before I agree to an alimony settlement?
Confirm which law applies, organize your financial documentation, and make sure you understand how duration caps and modification rules can impact you long-term.
Get Help Now
If you want a clear, confidential answer about how alimony reform affects your specific situation in 2026, schedule your free 20 minute consultation—so you can protect your peace and avoid expensive missteps.