How long will I have to pay alimony in South Carolina?
Answer:
The duration depends on the form of alimony and the governing order or agreement. Periodic support may continue indefinitely but can be subject to termination or modification rules. Lump-sum support is a finite award with different rules, so the actual terms must be reviewed before changing payments.
Current-law clarification — October 19, 2026: The original recording’s lifetime-payment summary omits important termination and modification rules. Periodic and lump-sum awards are treated differently, and the order or approved agreement matters. See Sections 20-3-130 and 20-3-170.
South Carolina recognizes different forms of alimony. Our attorney discusses ongoing periodic support and a finite lump-sum award.
Periodic support should not be understood as automatically payable for life in every case. Remarriage, qualifying continued cohabitation, death, changed circumstances, and the order’s terms may affect the obligation under applicable law.
Lump-sum alimony has a fixed total and different termination and modification rules. A family law attorney can review the award or agreement before advising on duration or a proposed change.