There are different types of alimony, and states use different terminology to describe different types of alimony. These include permanent alimony, limited duration alimony, reimbursement alimony, rehabilitative alimony, alimony in solido, alimony in gross, alimony in future, periodic alimony, and transitional alimony.

New Jersey recognizes rehabilitative, reimbursement, limited duration, and permanent alimony. Often courts will award pendente lite or temporary support to maintain a spouse between the time of separation and eventual divorce. The other types of alimony are for a given period of time ranging from a couple years to virtually permanent support.