Do I Keep Paying Alimony in Michigan if My Ex Lives With Someone?

 Posted on June 05, 2025 in Family Law

Alimony, also known as spousal support or maintenance, is highly regulated in Michigan. In most cases, it will end if the ex-spouse receiving payments gets remarried or is living with someone else. However, cases are considered based on each unique situation, and the termination of spousal maintenance is not always straightforward. 

Working with an experienced Oakland County, MI spousal support attorney ensures you understand your rights under state law and are aware of the legal action you can take to stop alimony payments when it is appropriate. The court recognizes that circumstances can change post-divorce, and for that reason, decrees can often be modified or terminated.

How Does Cohabitation Impact Spousal Support in Michigan?

If you are making alimony payments to an ex-spouse, and they remarry, the payments usually automatically stop. Cohabitation, which specifically refers to living with a romantic partner, does not affect spousal support in the same way, but it can signal grounds for modifying or ending the decree. 

When considering the modification or termination of spousal support based on the argument that the payee is cohabitating with someone, a judge will often consider:

• Whether the relationship and living situation are similar to a married couple

• Whether the couple shares finances and splits living expenses

• Whether the couple shares the responsibilities of a home

The purpose of evaluating the nature of the relationship is that not all people living together are romantic couples. For example, having a roommate would likely not warrant the modification or termination of spousal support because the roommate relationship does not entail the same financial commingling you see with marriage-like relationships. 

Could Spousal Support Ever Continue After Remarriage?

Michigan law regarding the termination of alimony states that payments end when the spouse receiving support remarries – unless there is a contrary agreement in the divorce judgment. Sometimes, alimony may continue even after remarriage if the divorce decree states that it does not end with remarriage or if the remarried spouse’s financial circumstances do not change. Consulting with an attorney is essential to understanding how your specific circumstances can impact spousal support.

How Do You Stop Spousal Support Payments in Michigan?

The first step in stopping spousal support payments is to review your agreement to see what it says about termination. Is there mention of it ending if your ex moves in with someone or remarries? Next, work with an attorney to gather the evidence needed and file a motion to terminate alimony. Once you file, your ex will be allowed to respond. If they oppose the termination, the court will review the case and make a legally binding decision.

Contact a Novi, MI Spousal Support Attorney Today

If you have questions about ending or modifying spousal support payments in Michigan, the Northville, MI spousal support lawyers at Elkouri Heath, PLC can help. We have been helping clients in southeastern Michigan with family law matters for over 23 years and understand that these matters are deeply personal. Call 248-344-9700 today to schedule a free consultation with a compassionate attorney who will carefully assess your case to offer tailored solutions to the legal issues that are bothering you.