Alimony Calculator
Estimated Monthly Alimony
—
Annual Alimony
—
Estimated Duration
—
Total Estimated Alimony
—
Understanding Alimony and Spousal Support
Alimony (spousal support or maintenance) is financial support paid by one spouse to the other during or after divorce. It is designed to help the lower-earning spouse maintain a reasonable standard of living while they become self-sufficient. Each state has different formulas, guidelines, and factors for determining alimony.
Key factors courts consider include the income disparity between spouses, length of marriage, age and health of both parties, standard of living during marriage, contributions to the marriage (including homemaking and supporting the other spouse's career), and each spouse's earning capacity.
Alimony duration typically correlates with marriage length: short marriages (under 10 years) may result in temporary alimony for 1-3 years, medium marriages (10-20 years) may warrant alimony for 5-10 years, and long marriages (20+ years) may result in permanent or indefinite alimony. These are general guidelines and actual orders vary by jurisdiction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is alimony taxable?
Under the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, for divorces finalized after December 31, 2018, alimony is no longer deductible by the payor or taxable income for the recipient. Pre-2019 divorce agreements follow the old rules.
How long does alimony last?
Duration depends on marriage length, state laws, and circumstances. Short marriages may result in 1-3 years of alimony. Long marriages (20+ years) may result in permanent alimony until remarriage, cohabitation, or death.
Can alimony be modified?
Yes, alimony can be modified if there is a substantial change in circumstances such as job loss, retirement, remarriage of the recipient, or significant income change of either party. File a motion with the court.
What is the difference between alimony and child support?
Alimony supports the former spouse and ends upon remarriage or other conditions. Child support is for the children and continues until they reach adulthood. They are calculated separately and serve different purposes.