The End of Support refers to the date or event that marks the conclusion of spousal support payments. This section of the separation agreement ensures both parties understand when the financial obligation will end, which can provide certainty for long-term financial planning.

Fixed End Date vs. Indefinite Support:

1. Fixed End Date:

   • Definition: A predetermined date when spousal support payments will stop, regardless of the circumstances at that time.
   • When to Use: A fixed end date is often used when the receiving spouse is expected to achieve financial independence within a certain period. It provides clarity and finality to the support arrangement.
   • Example: Support payments may end after 5 years from the start date, with the exact end date clearly stated in the agreement (e.g., January 15, 2029).
   • Legal Guidelines: A fixed end date may be agreed upon based on the Spousal Support Advisory Guidelines (SSAG), considering the length of the marriage and the recipient's ability to become self-sufficient.

2. Indefinite Support:

   • Definition: Spousal support continues until a specific event, such as retirement, remarriage, or a significant change in financial circumstances, occurs. There is no fixed end date in this case.
   • When to Use: This option is more common in long-term marriages or situations where the recipient spouse may not be able to achieve financial independence (e.g., health issues or significant barriers to employment).
   • Example: Support continues indefinitely until the recipient remarries or the court orders a change based on the payor's retirement or financial hardship.
   • Legal Guidelines: Indefinite support is often based on the length of the marriage, the age of the recipient, and the payor's ability to continue payments.

How to Determine the End of Support:

• Mutual Agreement: The parties may agree on a fixed date or decide to keep the end date open-ended, with flexibility for future modifications.
• Court-Ordered: If the parties cannot reach an agreement, the court may impose a fixed or indefinite end date based on financial assessments and the SSAG.

Example:

• Example 1: A couple agrees that spousal support will end after 3 years, as the recipient is completing educational training to secure a stable income. The agreement states the exact date when payments will cease: March 1, 2027.
• Example 2: In a long-term marriage where the recipient spouse has limited earning capacity, the agreement may state that spousal support will continue indefinitely until a significant life event occurs, such as retirement or remarriage.

Why This Matters:

A clear End of Support provision in the separation agreement helps both parties understand their long-term financial responsibilities and allows them to plan accordingly. It prevents future disputes and ensures that the support arrangement is fair and practical, based on the unique circumstances of the case.