Should You Accept A Lump Sum Alimony Payment In A Fort Lauderdale Divorce?

If you are going through a Fort Lauderdale divorce and alimony is on the table, you may be facing a choice that will affect your finances for years to come: should you accept a single lump sum payment now, or receive ongoing monthly payments over time?

Both options have real advantages and drawbacks, and the right answer depends entirely on your personal circumstances. Our experienced Fort Lauderdale alimony attorney breaks down what you need to consider before you decide.

Your Rights to Lump Sum Alimony in Broward County

Under Florida Statutes Section 61.08, you may be entitled to alimony in a Fort Lauderdale divorce in either periodic payments, a lump sum, or a combination of both. However, lump-sum alimony is treated differently from periodic payments. Here’s how it works:

• Unlike periodic alimony, which may be modified if circumstances change, lump sum alimony is generally final, meaning neither party can go back to court to change it.
• Periodic alimony typically ends if the receiving spouse remarries or either spouse dies. A lump sum obligation is generally a fixed debt that survives these events.
• Lump-sum alimony does not always mean a single large check. You can structure it as a series of fixed payments over a defined period.
• Depending on its structure, lump-sum alimony can affect your tax liability.

For many, one major advantage of lump sum alimony is not having to deal with a former spouse or worry whether they will make consistent payments.

When a Lump Sum Makes Sense (and When It Doesn’t)

When getting a divorce through the Broward County Family Court and deciding whether to accept a lump sum alimony offer, take an honest look at your financial situation, your relationship with your ex-spouse, and your long-term needs.

Lump-sum payments are often preferable if your ex-spouse is financially irresponsible, you want a clean break, or you have immediate financial needs. However, if the amount offered is less than what you would receive over time or you have limited experience managing large sums, period payments may be preferable.

Before making any decisions, consider these questions:

• Is the amount offered equivalent to the total of the periodic payments you would receive?
• Does your ex-spouse have the financial resources to make a lump sum payment?
• Have you determined how it affects your taxes, retirement planning, and overall financial security?
• Are there children whose needs might be better served by a structured ongoing support arrangement?

To determine the best option in your particular case, consult an experienced Fort Lauderdale alimony attorney.

Contact Our Experienced Fort Lauderdale Alimony Attorney Today

Whether you are considering accepting a lump sum offer or negotiating ongoing alimony payments, The Law Office of Sandra Bonfiglio, P.A. can help you evaluate your options and protect your financial future.

We represent clients throughout Broward County, providing the trusted legal representation you need to make smart choices. Call or contact our office today to request a consultation with our experienced Fort Lauderdale alimony attorney.

Sources:

flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/2025/0061.08

irs.gov/taxtopics/tc452