My husband and I haven’t separated yet, but I will be taking that step in 2020. I am the breadwinner in my family; we have two kids and two dogs. My husband now works part time, no more than 10 hours a week. When I calculate the alimony support it says based on the salary I would owe him $4,000/month.
I can’t afford that and keep the house. Is it suggested to sell the house, go separate ways and then pay the alimony? When does alimony actually start?
Alimony to a dependent spouse starts sometime after the date of separation. Until the amount and duration can be negotiated or determined by the court, the supporting spouse will provide the dependent spouse temporary postseparation support payments.
It may be best in your situation to negotiate all the terms of your separation (equitable distribution (property division), alimony, child custody, and child support) before you actually separate. That way, you will know exactly how much you need to pay and when, which assets and debts you will be keeping, and when you will have the children before you ever separate.
You can sell the house at any time with mutual agreement but it is possible to sell the house before separating.
Anna Ayscue
Attorney with Rosen Law Firm Cary • Chapel Hill • Durham • Raleigh • Wake Forest
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