P.S. another reason to consider a lump sum - alimony usually stops if you remarry or cohabit. I didn't think that would be an issue for me, but now I have a steady man for 3 years, and might consider having him live with me, but we have to wait another 3 years since I need the alimony money to help pay for my kids in college. If I'd gotten a lump sum my marital or relationship status would have been moot.
