How Long New Hampshire Alimony Lasts
New Hampshire limits term alimony to 50% of the length of the marriage, and ends it on the payee’s remarriage or the payor’s full retirement age or actual retirement, whichever is later, unless the parties agree or justice requires otherwise.
Maximum duration
The maximum duration of term alimony is 50% of the length of the marriage, unless the parties agree otherwise or the court finds justice requires an adjustment. The length of the marriage is the number of months from the date of marriage to the date of service of the petition (RSA 458:19-a, III and RSA 458:19, VII). A 10-year marriage (120 months) has a 5-year limit.
Remarriage
Term alimony ends on the remarriage of the payee, unless the order is based on an agreement of the parties that provides otherwise.
Retirement
Term alimony ends when the payor reaches full retirement age or actually retires, whichever is later, unless the parties agree otherwise or the court finds justice requires a different date. The payor’s ability to work past full retirement is not itself a reason to extend alimony, and the payor must give reasonable notice, presumed to be 60 days. If justice requires, the court may extend alimony up to an amount that equalizes the parties’ gross Social Security benefits (RSA 458:19-aa, IV and V).
Death and security
Unless the court orders otherwise, the obligation ends on the payee’s death and is a charge against the payor’s estate, except to the extent covered by life insurance or other security, and the court may require reasonable security for payments due if the payor dies before they are complete.
Step orders
The court may make a step-down or step-up order that decreases or increases the payments over time, beginning with the current reasonable need or the formula amount.
Questions for the negotiation
Decide whether the agreement should set a different duration, address retirement and say what happens on remarriage.
Time to ask
A request for alimony must be made before the final decree is effective or not later than 5 years from its effective date.
Frequently asked questions
How long can New Hampshire alimony last?
At most 50% of the length of the marriage, unless the parties agree or justice requires an adjustment.
How is the length of the marriage measured in New Hampshire?
In months from the date of marriage to the date of service of the divorce petition.
Does retirement end New Hampshire alimony?
It ends at the payor's full retirement age or actual retirement, whichever is later, unless otherwise agreed or ordered.
Does New Hampshire alimony survive the payor’s death?
Only as a charge on the estate or covered by life insurance or security, if the court ordered it.
How long do I have to ask for New Hampshire alimony?
Before the final decree is effective, or within 5 years of its effective date.
Official sources
- RSA 458:19-a: term and reimbursement alimony
- RSA 458:19-aa: alimony modification or termination
- RSA 458:19: alimony definitions
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 New Hampshire statutes, rules and court opinions, and every case turns on its own facts. Confirm how the law applies to your situation with a licensed New Hampshire attorney.