Imagine paying spousal support for years, only to find out that it could have ended sooner. Many people assume long-term spousal support is permanent, but Texas law has clear guidelines on when it should stop.
In Houston, spousal support can be terminated due to remarriage, cohabitation, financial changes, or simply reaching the court-ordered time limit. If you or someone you know is making these payments, understanding when they legally end can help you plan for the future.
At Daniel Ogbeide Law, we help clients resolve complex family law matters. Our experienced family law and litigation attorneys in Houston provide guidance on spousal support, helping clients understand their rights and obligations.
In this article, we explain the key factors that determine when long-term spousal support ends, so you can prepare for what’s ahead.
Court-Ordered Time Limits on Spousal Support
Texas does not grant indefinite spousal support in most cases. Instead, there are strict limits based on the length of the marriage:
- Marriages lasting 10-20 years: Support is capped at five years.
- Marriages lasting 20-30 years: Support is capped at seven years.
- Marriages lasting 30+ years: Support is capped at ten years.
The purpose of these limits is to provide financial assistance for a limited period, allowing the receiving spouse time to become self-sufficient. The only exception is if the spouse receiving support has a disability that prevents them from earning a living. In those cases, payments can continue indefinitely, but the court regularly reviews the circumstances.
Remarriage or Cohabitation: Immediate Termination
Spousal support automatically ends if the receiving spouse gets remarried. The logic behind this rule is simple—if they have a new spouse, they should no longer rely on the previous one for financial help.
Another common reason for termination is cohabitation. If the supported spouse moves in with a new romantic partner and establishes a household, the paying spouse can petition the court to end support. The key factor here is proving that the couple is living together in a way that resembles marriage. Evidence might include shared bills, joint accounts, or testimonies from neighbors.
Financial Independence: Proving Self-Sufficiency
Spousal support is designed to provide financial stability while the recipient gets back on their feet. However, if they become financially independent before the court-ordered period ends, the paying spouse can request an early termination.
Indicators of self-sufficiency may include:
- Obtaining full-time employment with sufficient income.
- Completing education or training that leads to stable earnings.
- Receiving a significant financial windfall (such as an inheritance or settlement).
If you believe your ex no longer needs financial support, a family court lawyer in Houston, TX can help you present evidence to the court.
Modification or Termination Due to Financial Changes
If the paying spouse experiences a major financial setback, they can request a modification or termination of spousal support. Courts may grant relief in cases of:
- Job loss or reduction in income beyond the payer’s control.
- Health issues that affect the ability to work.
- Retirement, depending on the circumstances.
A judge will review the situation and determine whether reducing or ending support is appropriate. However, voluntary unemployment or intentionally lowering income to avoid payments is not accepted.
What Happens If Payments Aren’t Stopped?
Failing to request termination can result in overpayments. If circumstances change—whether due to remarriage, cohabitation, or financial independence—it is the responsibility of the paying spouse to take legal action. Courts will not automatically stop support unless a formal request is made.
A spousal support attorney in Houston, TX can help you file the necessary motions to ensure you are not making payments longer than required.
Are You Paying More Than You Should Be?
If you’re still making spousal support payments, it’s worth asking: should they have ended already? Whether due to remarriage, financial changes, or simply reaching the time limit, it’s essential to review your situation.
At Daniel Ogbeide Law, our experienced family law attorneys help clients determine if they are eligible to end or modify their support obligations. We understand how Texas courts handle these cases and can guide you through the process efficiently.
If you need help with spousal support or any other family law matters in Houston, contact us at 832-321-7005 today. Our team is ready to review your case and help you find the best path forward.