'AITA for ending alimony after my ex-wife moved in with her boyfriend?'

A man shared his story on Reddit's "Am I The A*****e" (AITA) forum with a post titled "AITA for getting alimony ended when my ex moved in with her boyfriend?"

The man garnered praise online for ending alimony after his ex-wife moved in with her boyfriend, attracting over 11k likes and 1.2k comments.

Man asks if he's wrong for ending alimony after ex moves in with new partner

In the Reddit post, OP starts by giving some background, "Hello, I (41M) have a twelve year old son with my ex wife (37F). We divorced 5 years ago. I pay child support and (formerly) alimony. Shortly after our divorce, she took in her sister's son, who is currently ten. They live in our old home, which has three bedrooms."

He continues, "Almost two years ago, my ex started dating a guy and is now 4ish months pregnant. He moved in about the same time she found out she was pregnant. He has a daughter from a previous relationship. His daughter was given her own room and my son and his cousin now share a room."

"My son is upset about this and asked to live with me full time. I went to my lawyer and began that process to get full custody. I have wanted full custody since we divorced, but my son had never indicated he wanted that so I did not push for it. I also found out from my lawyer that my ex living with her boyfriend gives me the right to terminate alimony in our state (my previous lawyer said it was only if she got remarried). So, I told him to go for it."

OP adds, "The court has ended the alimony. The custody is taking longer and won't be decided until after the holidays. My ex is pissed about the loss of alimony it because she is only working part time and her boyfriend is a medically retired fireman. So, they are struggling financially. But, I feel that is extra money I could put away for my kid down the line."

Internet supports man who terminates alimony after ex moves in with boyfriend

One user wrote, "NTA. I hope your son ends up in the best possible living situation." 

Another user commented, "Not at all. Take care of your child. You are not responsible for her lifestyle."

A third user added, "Exactly. They can sort out their own finances without OP being used as an ATM."

One user wrote, "Exactly, OP’s focus should be on providing the best environment for their child, not on supporting their ex’s financial situation. It’s important to ensure that resources are used for the child’s well-being first." 

Another added, "NTA. Your ex moving her boyfriend in triggered a legitimate legal option to terminate alimony. If she chose to restructure her living situation without considering the potential financial consequences, that’s not your fault. Also, your son’s discomfort and request to live with you are valid reasons to seek custody. It’s understandable to prioritize his well-being over continuing financial support for your ex, especially when her new household includes her boyfriend’s financial contributions."

"Absolutely, OP. You're making decisions based on what’s best for your son, and that’s what matters most. It’s not your responsibility to maintain your ex’s lifestyle, especially when you’re putting that money toward your child’s future. Stay focused on the custody process and ensure you’re documenting how you’re providing a stable, supportive environment for your son. Just keep doing what’s right for him, he’s lucky to have you in his corner," a user said,

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