Alimony Calculator
Estimate spousal support (alimony) amounts based on income difference, marriage length, and state guidelines.
⚖️ Legal📐 Alimony ≈ 30-40% of income difference × Duration Factor
Higher earner income ($/yr)
Lower earner income ($/yr)
Years married
Please enter valid values.
Formula & Reference
| Variable | Formula | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Alimony Calculator | Alimony ≈ 30-40% of income difference × Duration Factor | $/month |
Step-by-Step Examples
Example 1
Long Marriage
$120K vs $40K income, 12 years married.
- Monthly gap: $6,667 | ~30-35% factor
- Est. monthly: $2,000-2,333 for 7-9 years
✓ ~$2,000-2,333/month
Example 2
Short Marriage
$100K vs $50K, 3 years.
- Short marriage = shorter alimony | Est: $1,250/month for 1-2 years
✓ ~$1,250/month, 1-2 years
Example 3
Equal Earners
$80K vs $75K income, 10 years.
- Minimal income gap | Alimony unlikely
✓ Little to no alimony
Real-World Applications
Divorcing Spouses
Get a rough estimate before consulting an attorney.
Family Law Attorneys
Quick reference for initial client consultations.
Financial Planners
Help clients plan post-divorce finances.
Mediators
Provide starting framework for alimony negotiations.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
⚠️
Using this as legal advice
Alimony varies dramatically by state. Some states (Texas) cap alimony. Others (Massachusetts) have detailed guidelines. Always consult a licensed family law attorney.
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Not considering non-monetary factors
Courts consider: standard of living, each spouse's earning capacity, age and health, contributions to the other's career, child custody, and fault (in some states).
Frequently Asked Questions
How is alimony calculated? ▾
Most states use a formula based on: income difference between spouses, length of marriage, and the receiving spouse's ability to become self-supporting. Many states have no fixed formula — judges have wide discretion.
How long does alimony last? ▾
Short marriages (<5 years): 1-3 years. Medium (5-15 years): half to equal the marriage length. Long marriages (15+ years): potentially indefinite or until remarriage. Rehabilitative alimony ends when recipient becomes self-supporting.
Is alimony taxable? ▾
For divorces finalized after Dec. 31, 2018: alimony is NOT deductible for the payer and NOT taxable income for the recipient (Tax Cuts and Jobs Act change). Pre-2019 divorces: old rules apply.