Spousal Support and Alimony Calculator

There is no single national formula. Some states (e.g., Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Illinois) use guideline formulas - often 30-40% of the income difference, capped so recipient income does not exceed a percentage of payor income. Most states still use multi-factor analyses considering need, ability to pay, marriage length, and standard of living.

Duration is usually tied to the length of the marriage. Common rules include 1 year of support per 2-3 years of marriage for short marriages, longer or indefinite support for marriages over 20 years, and presumptive termination at retirement age. Many states presume permanent support only for "long" marriages (often 20+ years).

For divorce or separation agreements executed after December 31, 2018, alimony is no longer deductible by the payor or taxable to the recipient under federal law. Older agreements generally retain the prior treatment. Some states still follow the old rules for state income tax. Consult a tax professional.

Most states allow modification on a substantial change in circumstances (job loss, retirement, recipient's remarriage or cohabitation). Remarriage of the recipient typically terminates alimony automatically; cohabitation may suspend or terminate it depending on the state. Lump-sum or non-modifiable alimony cannot be changed.