Family

Alimony & Spousal Support Calculator

Alimony (also called spousal support or spousal maintenance) is financial support paid by one spouse to the other after separation or divorce. The amount and duration depend heavily on your state's laws — some states use strict formulas, others give judges wide discretion. This free estimator covers all 50 states and uses statute-specific formulas where available to give you a realistic planning figure.

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What this tool calculates

  • Covers all 50 states with state-specific formulas (NY, IL, AZ) or advisory estimates
  • Estimates both the monthly payment amount and likely duration
  • Uses the correct legal term for your state: alimony, spousal support, or spousal maintenance
  • Explains the classification behind each estimate (mandatory formula, judicial guideline, or discretionary)

How it works

Four steps, under two minutes.

  1. Select your state

    The engine loads your state's applicable statute or guideline.

  2. Enter both incomes

    Gross monthly income for the higher-earning and lower-earning spouse.

  3. Enter marriage length

    Duration is usually tied to how long the marriage lasted.

  4. Get your estimate

    Monthly amount, estimated duration, and the formula behind the result.

Frequently asked questions

Which states have a mandatory alimony formula?

New York (DRL §236), Illinois (750 ILCS 5/504), and Arizona use guideline calculations that courts apply as a starting point. Most other states leave the amount to judicial discretion, so estimates in those states are advisory only.

Does this calculator replace a divorce attorney?

No. Alimony involves facts a calculator cannot capture — asset division, child custody, tax implications, and each judge's tendencies. Use this tool for financial planning, not as a substitute for legal advice.

What is the difference between alimony, spousal support, and spousal maintenance?

They are the same concept with different names by state. California and Washington use "spousal support," Texas and New York use "spousal maintenance," and most other states use "alimony." The calculator uses whichever term applies to your state.

Does marital misconduct affect alimony?

In some states (e.g., North Carolina, Virginia) fault can be a factor. In equitable-distribution states like New York and California it generally is not. The calculator does not factor in fault — consult an attorney if misconduct is relevant to your case.

How long does alimony last?

Duration typically scales with marriage length. Short marriages (under 5 years) often result in short-term or no alimony; long marriages (20+ years) may result in indefinite support. Some states cap duration at half the marriage length.

Ready to calculate?

Estimate monthly alimony or spousal maintenance under your state's guidelines — covers all 50 states with statute-specific formulas.

Open the full Alimony Calculator →

Estimates are for planning purposes only and are not legal advice. Alimony outcomes depend on facts specific to your case. Consult a licensed family law attorney before relying on any figure.

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