Let’s be honest, divorce isn’t just emotional, it’s financial. And if your marriage is ending, you might be wondering:
Am I entitled to alimony?
In Georgia, alimony (also known as spousal support) isn’t guaranteed. It’s based on need and ability to pay—and it’s handled on a case-by-case basis. The court looks at your specific situation and asks:
- Does one spouse need financial help?
- Can the other reasonably afford to give it?
If you’re unsure whether it applies to you, here are five signs you may have a strong case for alimony—and what to do next.
1. You Gave Up Your Career to Support the Household
Maybe you stayed home to raise children or manage the home while your spouse advanced their career. That’s not just a personal choice—it’s an economic sacrifice.
Courts look at this and often acknowledge that the earning potential you gave up should be balanced out, especially if your spouse now earns significantly more.
2. There’s a Big Gap in Income Between You and Your Spouse
Georgia courts will assess each party’s financial position. If your spouse earns far more than you—and your income can’t reasonably support your needs—that’s a key factor in awarding alimony.
Example: One spouse earns $120K/year, the other earns $28K working part-time. This isn’t just about current income, but also realistic ability to increase earnings.
3. You Supported Your Spouse’s Career or Education
Were you working while your spouse went to law school? Did you cover the bills while they built a business? If so, the court may consider this a reason you deserve temporary or permanent support.
Alimony can help balance the investment you made in your spouse’s future—especially if that came at a cost to your own financial security.
4. You Have Health Issues or Are Nearing Retirement Age
If you’re unable to work full-time due to medical conditions—or you’re close to retirement and unlikely to rebuild your finances—Georgia law considers that in determining support.
Alimony isn’t just about income. It’s about future ability to maintain a stable life post-divorce.
5. Your Standard of Living Would Drop Significantly
Georgia courts often try to keep both spouses living as close as possible to the standard of living they had during the marriage—especially in long-term marriages.
That doesn’t mean luxury, but it does mean you shouldn’t go from stable to struggling just because the marriage ended.
A Few Quick Facts About Alimony in Georgia
- It can be temporary or permanent, depending on the situation
- It’s not guaranteed, but often negotiated as part of an uncontested divorce
- Marital misconduct (like infidelity) can impact alimony—but not always
- Judges consider length of the marriage, financial need, health, education, and sacrifices made during the marriage
What to Do If You Think You Qualify
If any of the signs above sound like your situation, don’t assume you’ll just “get by.” You’ve contributed to the marriage—and that deserves protection.
Let us help you:
- Evaluate your eligibility
- Negotiate fair terms
- Build a solid case for financial stability
Let’s Talk About What You’re Entitled To
If you’re facing a divorce and wondering how you’ll support yourself afterward, don’t guess.
Let Catherine Ryan, Attorney at Law, help you determine your options for spousal support—with clarity, compassion, and legal precision.
Click here to schedule your confidential consultation
You’ve supported others. Now let us support you.