How Long Does Alimony Last in Delaware?
Last reviewed: March 2026
Delaware uses statutory formula to determine alimony duration. <20yr marriage: max 50% of marriage length. 20+yr: court discretion. (Source: 13 Del. Code s.1512)
How Delaware determines alimony duration
Delaware is an equitable distribution state. Delaware refers to spousal support as “alimony”. Delaware has a statutory formula that determines the maximum duration of alimony based on the length of the marriage.
Source: 13 Del. Code s.1512
Limited to half the length of marriage for marriages under 20 years.
Estimated alimony duration by marriage length
The table below shows estimated maximum alimony duration for different marriage lengths in Delaware.
| Marriage length | Est. max alimony duration |
|---|---|
| 5 years | 2.5 years |
| 10 years | 5 years |
| 15 years | 7.5 years |
| 20 years | Indefinite (court discretion) |
| 25 years | Indefinite (court discretion) |
When does alimony end in Delaware?
Alimony in Delaware typically ends when:
- The court-ordered term expires
- The recipient spouse remarries
- Either party dies
- A court modifies or terminates the order due to a significant change in circumstances
In some cases, cohabitation with a new partner may also be grounds for modification or termination of alimony in Delaware.
Is alimony taxable in Delaware?
For divorce agreements finalized after December 31, 2018, alimony is not deductible by the payer and not taxable to the recipient under federal tax law (Tax Cuts and Jobs Act). This applies in Delaware and all other states.
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