When you got divorced, you were the main breadwinner and your ex stayed home with the kids. As a result, you were ordered to pay alimony for five years, giving your ex a source of income while they tried to re-enter the workforce.
Honestly, you understood why the money was needed. You earn plenty and you were happy to help if it gave your kids more security and stability.
But now your ex has gotten remarried, just a year after your divorce. You don’t necessarily mind, though it does seem fast, but their new spouse makes more money than you do. Can you cancel those alimony payments since they’re clearly no longer needed? Or do you have to keep paying?
Your payments will automatically stop
If you felt like making those payments was unfair, you’re in luck: Pennsylvania state law agrees with you. While this isn’t how it works everywhere, state laws specifically say that “Remarriage of the party receiving alimony shall terminate the award of alimony.” You do not have to keep supporting your ex when they are now being supported by someone else.
This really is a logical termination. Remember, alimony isn’t to punish you for asking for a divorce or ending your marriage. It’s not a form of property division, which is a separate issue. It’s just a way to make sure that a former spouse isn’t destitute after a sudden divorce. Their remarriage accomplishes the same goal.
You can see why it’s so important to know as much as you can about the legal process, both during and after a divorce.