Indefinite vs. Limited Alimony in Maryland
Maryland alimony runs for a period the court sets, and can be indefinite only if the recipient cannot reasonably be expected to make substantial progress toward self-support because of age, illness, infirmity or disability, or the standards of living would remain unconscionably disparate.
The default: a fixed period
Alimony is awarded for a period the court sets, and when that period ends no further alimony accrues (Family Law § 11-106(a)(3)). The court may extend it, as the next article explains.
Indefinite alimony
The court may award alimony for an indefinite period only if it finds that (1) due to age, illness, infirmity or disability, the party seeking alimony cannot reasonably be expected to make substantial progress toward becoming self-supporting; or (2) even after the party seeking alimony will have made as much progress toward self-support as can reasonably be expected, the parties’ respective standards of living will be unconscionably disparate (11-106(c)).
What the first finding looks at
Age, illness, infirmity or disability, backed by medical and vocational evidence about what progress is realistic.
What the second finding looks at
A projection: after the recipient does everything reasonably expected, would one spouse still live far better than the other? Evidence includes the marital standard of living, both parties’ realistic earnings and retirement benefits.
Extension of a fixed period
If circumstances arise during the period that would lead to a harsh and inequitable result without an extension, and the recipient petitions during the period, the court may extend it (11-107(a)). File before the period ends.
Questions for the negotiation
Decide the period, whether you want an indefinite award or a fixed term with a right to seek an extension, and what the agreement says about modification.
Use the calculator
The Maryland alimony calculator lets you answer the two findings and see whether indefinite alimony is possible.
Frequently asked questions
Can Maryland alimony be permanent?
It can be indefinite, but only if the court finds the recipient cannot be expected to become self-supporting because of age, illness, infirmity or disability, or the standards of living would be unconscionably disparate.
What is unconscionably disparate in Maryland?
A finding that even after the recipient has made as much progress toward self-support as is reasonable, the parties' standards of living would still differ to an unconscionable degree.
How long does Maryland alimony usually last?
The statute sets no formula or maximum; the court sets the period unless it makes one of the two findings for an indefinite award.
Can Maryland alimony be extended?
Yes, if circumstances during the period would otherwise produce a harsh and inequitable result and the recipient petitions during the period.
When must I ask to extend Maryland alimony?
During the period of the award, before it ends.
Official sources
- Md. Code, Family Law § 11-106: alimony
- Md. Code, Family Law § 11-107: extension and modification
- Md. Code, Family Law § 11-108: termination
A local family law attorney can review your situation — many offer a free consultation.
This is general information, not legal advice. It is based on the cited Maryland statutes, rules and court opinions, and every case turns on its own facts. Confirm how the law applies to your situation with a licensed Maryland attorney.