Alimony/Spousal Support Calculator
Estimate monthly alimony payments based on income disparity, marriage duration, and standard of living factors.
Results
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How It Works
Alimony (spousal support/maintenance) helps the lower-earning spouse maintain a reasonable standard of living after divorce. The amount depends on the income gap, marriage length, and state guidelines. Duration typically correlates with marriage length.
The Formula
Monthly Alimony = f(Income Difference) based on state method; Duration = Marriage Years x Duration Factor
Variables
- 1/3 Method — One-third of the income difference between spouses
- 40% Method — 40% of combined income minus lower earner's income
- Duration Factor — 30% for short marriages up to 100% for 20+ year marriages
Example
Higher earner: $8,000/mo, Lower earner: $2,500/mo, 12-year marriage (1/3 method): Monthly = ($8,000 - $2,500) / 3 = $1,833. Duration = 12 x 12 x 0.7 = 101 months. Total = $185,133.
Tips
- Alimony formulas are guidelines -- judges have discretion to deviate based on circumstances.
- Alimony may be modifiable if either spouse's financial situation changes significantly.
- Remarriage of the receiving spouse typically terminates alimony.
- Some states distinguish between temporary, rehabilitative, and permanent alimony.
- Tax treatment of alimony changed in 2019 -- payments under new agreements are not deductible.