Can You Get Alimony If You Cheated?

Quick answer: In most states, cheating does not automatically disqualify you from receiving alimony. Because the majority of states use no-fault divorce, spousal support is usually based on financial need and each spouse’s ability to pay rather than on marital misconduct. That said, some states allow a judge to weigh adultery as one factor, and a few can reduce or deny alimony to a spouse who cheated — so the answer depends heavily on where you live.

The Short Answer: Usually Yes

In most states, people who cheat on their spouses are still eligible to receive alimony. However, simply living in a state that does not allow cheating spouses to collect alimony may not be enough to avoid payment. Read about how fault divorces work — because proving infidelity in court is harder than most people expect.

Fault Divorces and Alimony

In some states, you can file for a fault divorce which could reduce the betrayed spouse’s alimony obligation — but it is unlikely to eliminate it entirely. These cases require proof and almost always involve litigation, which is expensive. Read about why fault-based divorce proceedings cost so much more.

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Is a Fault Divorce Worth It?

In most cases, the cost of obtaining a fault divorce actually outweighs the potential alimony benefits. Many people ultimately decide to claim irreconcilable differences and finalize the divorce faster and cheaper. Read about how to get a divorce fast when both parties are ready to move on cooperatively.

Simplifying Your Divorce

If you’re getting a divorce and your spouse cheated, SimpleEnding may still be a great solution for you — especially if both parties are willing to cooperate on the terms. Find out whether online divorce is right for your situation.

For more information, visit divorce resources from Psychology Today.

Read about whether you can go to jail for cheating for the criminal side of infidelity, beyond its effect on alimony.

Thinking about your next step? If you live in Utah, SimpleEnding prepares court-ready divorce documents for a flat $99 — no attorney required. See how our online divorce in Utah works.

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Andrea Willie

Andrea Willie, originally from Tenerife in the Canary Islands, Spain, began her academic journey studying law at Universidad de La Laguna. In 2017, she moved to Utah to study English at Brigham Young University, where she met her now-husband. Inspired to blend her interests in communication and creativity, Andrea pursued a degree in marketing at Utah Valley University. While studying, she gained hands-on experience working with various companies in Tucson, Arizona, where she and her husband lived for three years. Outside of work, Andrea enjoys spending time with her husband and cat. She also has a passion for movies and reading.

SimpleEnding is currently available for divorces in Utah and Texas.

Our forms are built to each state’s specific filing requirements and are kept current with those courts, which is why we expand one state at a time rather than offering one generic nationwide form set. Additional states are in development.

Matthew Ames

Matthew Ames is from Idaho Falls, and was raised in both Idaho and Utah. He has been interested in creative digital work from a young age. In 2021, Matt started working for SimpleEnding, Moxie Law Group, and CoilLaw doing all things social media, graphics, photography, and video. Matt loves the gym, shoes, and Lego. He’s also a fan of all things Marvel, Star Wars, Pokémon, and anime.

Lianna Manibog

Lianna Jean Manibog is an AI strategist and writer who works at the intersection of emerging technology, communication, and decision-making. Her background spans higher education, business strategy, and applied AI, with a focus on how organizations adapt to rapid technological change without losing clarity or judgment. She has developed frameworks for AI adoption, trained teams on evaluating and using AI outputs, and supported organizations in integrating these tools into their operations in ways that are both effective and responsible.

At Moxie Law, Lianna applies this expertise to strengthen communication, organize information, and serve clients. She develops AI-informed content and knowledge systems that extend beyond traditional marketing, helping firms structure information for clarity, accessibility, and long-term visibility across both search engines and AI-driven platforms. Her approach integrates SEO and Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) with a deep understanding of how people seek information and make decisions in high-stakes legal situations, resulting in content that is both strategically positioned and client-centered.

Outside of her professional work, Lianna is a musician and the founder of The Threadwork Collective, a nonprofit focused on community-building through art and education. She also enjoys spending time outdoors with her partner and their three dogs.”

Paul Wyner

Paul Wyner was born and raised in Salt Lake City, Utah. He attended Southern Utah University and graduated with a Bachelors of Arts in History Education. Paul went on to receive a Masters in Business Administration from Westminster College. Before working at CoilLaw, Paul worked in Healthcare Administration for several large healthcare companies in Utah.

The aforementioned includes Intermountain Healthcare, University of Utah Healthcare, and Revere Health. When not at work, Paul spends his time doing volunteer work, hanging with his wife and five children, or watching sporting events—specifically the Atlanta Braves and the Green Bay Packers.

Luke A. Shaw

Luke was raised in an Air Force family and spent most of his early years in Spokane, Washington. Luke earned a bachelor’s degree in business management prior to receiving his juris doctorate from Michigan State University College of Law.

Luke was admitted into the Arizona State Bar in 2013. Shortly thereafter, in 2015, Luke joined the Utah State Bar and joined CoilLaw. He committed himself to zealously advocating and working diligently to obtain favorable outcomes for his clients. In 2022 he stepped away from active litigation and moved to Texas where he was admitted to practice law and assists Jill in developing SimpleEnding and CoilLaw.

Luke is married and has two energetic boys. When he’s not advocating for clients or working on SimpleEnding he enjoys spending time with his family, watching a good show, watching Michigan State University athletics, and travelling.

Jill L. Coil

Jill L. Coil was born and raised in Salt Lake City, Utah. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Brigham Young University and she graduated with honors. Jill went on to attend Texas Southern University, where she met her husband, and received her Juris Doctorate. Jill founded CoilLaw in December 2014, and focused on Family and Criminal Law. CoilLaw began as a Utah company but has recently expanded into Texas. Although Jill now resides in Texas, Jill is a licensed attorney in both Utah, and Texas. Jill founded CoilLaw with a mission to empathize, protect, and advocate for families through high-quality legal representation.

Through hard work, determination, and perseverance, Jill has earned many awards and a reputation for fiercely advocating for her clients and their rights. Jill is a firm believer in giving back to the community through volunteer work. She’s an active participant in the Family Bar Section in both Utah and Texas. Jill is the mother of four children and, when she’s not fighting for the rights of her clients, she loves to watch movies, and visit Disneyland.

Cameron Jolley

Cameron is a man of many talents and passions. He is a marketing and communications professional, and a dedicated community member. He is also a loving father and an avid thrill-seeker. Cameron is an individual who is always striving to learn and grow.

Cameron grew up in Spanish Fork, Utah, where he developed a strong sense of community and a love for the outdoors. Cameron is passionate about using his skills and knowledge to make a difference in the world. He is a strong advocate for equality and opportunity, and he supports organizations that are working to create a better future for all people. Cameron is also actively involved in his community, where he volunteers his time and expertise to various causes.

In his free time, Cameron enjoys spending time with his daughter and pursuing his many hobbies. He is an avid fisherman, traveler, and motorcyclist.