For people who don’t have children, there often isn’t much of a desire to keep in contact with an ex after a divorce. One thing might prevent you from being able to make a clean break from your ex — having to pay alimony.
There is an alternative to having to make monthly alimony payments to your ex. Some individuals will try to work out a deal for a lump sum payment so that there isn’t a need to remain in contact and make those regular payments. This option isn’t right for everyone since not everyone has the available money to do this, but those who do might find this to be an attractive way to sever the relationship.
One thing to remember about lump sum alimony is that it must be equal to what monthly payments the person would have received. This might take some guesswork, however, because there isn’t always a definitive answer for how long the alimony would have lasted.
The recipient can also benefit from lump sum alimony because it enables him or her to move on with life much faster. Sometimes, the monthly payments come with the condition that they can’t live with another adult. By accepting a lump sum payment, the person doesn’t have to think about what might happen if he or she does become romantically involved with someone else.
Just like every other facet of divorce, you should evaluate your situation before you determine whether you want to pursue this option. Just the thought of not having to deal with those payments or the possibility of legal action if you miss one might be worth this arrangement.
Source: FindLaw, “Avoid Alimony Monthly Payment Programs,” accessed May 17, 2018