Can Men Receive Alimony in South Carolina?

When most people think of alimony, they imagine a husband paying his ex-wife after a divorce. But in South Carolina, that stereotype doesn’t hold up in court. Under state law, alimony is gender-neutral. Either spouse, husband or wife, can request financial support during or after divorce, depending on the circumstances.

At Sarji Law Firm, we represent both men and women in complex divorce and alimony cases throughout Charleston and across South Carolina. If you’re a man going through divorce, understanding how alimony works and when you may be entitled to it  is essential to protecting your financial future.

South Carolina Law Does Not Favor One Gender

South Carolina Code § 20-3-120 gives judges the authority to award alimony to either spouse, based on need and ability to pay. The law specifically avoids gender bias, focusing instead on each spouse’s financial situation, earning potential, and contributions to the marriage.

That means a husband has the same legal right to request alimony as a wife does. In fact, courts regularly award alimony to men, particularly in cases where they left the workforce to support their spouse’s career, took on household or childcare duties, or now earn significantly less than their former partner.

The idea behind alimony is not to punish one spouse or reward another, but to provide economic fairness after divorce. The goal is to help the lower-earning spouse maintain a standard of living similar to what was established during the marriage while they become self-sufficient.

When Can a Husband Qualify for Alimony?

To determine whether alimony is appropriate, South Carolina courts look at many factors, all of which apply equally to both men and women. These include:

• Length of the marriage – Longer marriages generally make alimony more likely, especially when one spouse was financially dependent on the other.
• Each spouse’s income and earning capacity – Judges consider the difference in income and potential future earnings.
• Standard of living during the marriage – Courts aim to minimize drastic lifestyle changes after divorce.
• Age and health – Poor health or advanced age can impact the ability to work or retrain.
• Contributions to the household – Non-financial contributions, such as raising children or managing the home, carry significant weight.
• Marital misconduct – Fault, such as adultery, can affect eligibility and the amount of support awarded.

In practice, a husband may receive alimony if his spouse was the primary earner or if he sacrificed his own career opportunities to support the family. For example, if a husband stayed home to care for children while his wife built a successful career, a court may view him as financially dependent and award support.

Types of Alimony Available to Men in South Carolina

South Carolina law allows for several different forms of alimony, and each serves a specific purpose. These include:

• Permanent Periodic Alimony – Paid on a regular basis until the recipient remarries or either spouse passes away. This is common in long-term marriages.
• Rehabilitative Alimony – Intended to help the receiving spouse gain job skills or education to become financially independent.
• Reimbursement Alimony – Awarded when one spouse supported the other through school or career advancement, effectively investing in their future earnings.
• Lump Sum Alimony – A one-time payment made instead of ongoing monthly payments.
• Separate Maintenance and Support – Temporary support awarded when a couple separates but hasn’t yet finalized a divorce.

Each form of alimony depends on the specific facts of the case. An experienced divorce attorney can help identify which type of alimony is most appropriate and advocate for fair treatment in court.

Challenging Gender Bias in Divorce Cases

Even though South Carolina law is clear that alimony can be awarded to either spouse, some men still face social bias when requesting support. Judges are required to apply the law without prejudice, but cultural expectations sometimes influence negotiations or settlement discussions.

Many men hesitate to ask for alimony because they feel embarrassed or assume courts will automatically favor women. However, the reality is that the courts recognize both financial and domestic contributions, regardless of gender. If your spouse was the higher earner or you made sacrifices for the marriage, you are entitled to seek support just as any other spouse would.

At Sarji Law Firm, we advocate strongly for our male clients to ensure that financial fairness is achieved. We understand the stigma that can accompany these cases and approach them with discretion, professionalism, and respect.

How to Request Alimony as a Husband in South Carolina

If you’re considering filing for alimony, preparation is key. The more evidence you can provide about your financial situation and your spouse’s income, the stronger your case will be. Important steps include:

• Gathering income statements, tax returns, and employment records.
• Documenting your contributions to the marriage, including child care or household management.
• Demonstrating your financial need and current expenses.
• Showing any career sacrifices you made during the marriage.

Because every divorce case is unique, having a knowledgeable family law attorney on your side can make a significant difference. Your lawyer can present the facts clearly, counter stereotypes, and ensure your rights are protected throughout the process.

Speak With a Charleston Alimony Attorney Today

Alimony is about fairness, not gender. Whether you’re a husband or wife, you deserve financial stability after a divorce. If you believe you may be entitled to spousal support, or if your spouse has requested it from you, our team can help you understand your options and develop a strategy that fits your situation.

At Sarji Law Firm, we handle every case with compassion and determination. To learn more about alimony rights for men in South Carolina, contact us today. We’ll review your case and help you pursue the financial outcome you deserve.