Does Massachusetts spousal support (alimony) terminate, stop, or end at retirement?
It depends on the circumstances surrounding your situation. The normal retirement of a supporting (paying) spouse may justify the filing of an alimony modification by showing a change in circumstance such as a reduction in income as a result of retirement. The Court considers all factors identified in Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 208 Section 34 in determining whether or not to reduce, terminate, eliminate, or leave the existing alimony order unchanged. If you retire prematurely or voluntarily leave your job too early, you may be ordered to continue to pay alimony at the current levels. If you retire or lose your job and are unable to find employment at your current salary, the court may consider your lower earnings capacity to reduce your alimony order.
