Alimony Calculator

Estimate spousal support amount and duration based on income difference and years of marriage.

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Monthly Alimony

$1,875.00

Annual Alimony

$22,500.00

Est. Duration

Medium-term: ~6.0 years

Alimony Calculation

Higher Earner Income$120,000.00
Lower Earner Income$45,000.00
Income Difference$75,000.00
Formula (30% of difference)$22,500.00
Monthly Alimony$1,875.00
Annual Alimony$22,500.00

Duration & Total Estimate

Years Married12
Estimated DurationMedium-term: ~6.0 years
Total Estimated Alimony$135,000.00

Tax Note: Since 2019 (Tax Cuts and Jobs Act), alimony payments are not tax-deductible for the payer and not taxable income for the recipient for agreements executed after December 31, 2018.

Use the Alimony Calculator above to calculate your results. Enter your values and see instant results — all calculations run in your browser.

Disclaimer: This calculator is for informational purposes only and does not constitute tax, financial, or legal advice. Results are estimates based on the information you provide and current rates. Always consult a qualified tax professional or financial advisor for advice specific to your situation.

How It Works

Our Alimony Calculator provides an estimated spousal support amount and duration, helping you understand potential financial obligations or entitlements post-divorce. This tool considers key factors like income disparity and marriage length, which are crucial for navigating divorce settlements in 2026. Get a preliminary estimate to inform your discussions.

This calculator primarily uses a common formula where alimony is often calculated as 30% of the higher earner's gross income minus 20% of the lower earner's gross income. The duration is estimated as 30-50% of the marriage length for marriages under 20 years, with longer durations, potentially indefinite, for marriages exceeding 20 years. These percentages are based on typical judicial guidelines in 2026.

A common mistake is assuming the calculator's estimate is a legal guarantee; it's a starting point, not a final court order. Also, don't forget to account for other financial contributions or sacrifices made during the marriage, such as one spouse foregoing career advancement for family. Always consult with a legal professional for personalized advice.

Example: 15-Year Marriage, Income Disparity

  1. 1 Input: Spouse A Gross Income = $120,000/year, Spouse B Gross Income = $40,000/year, Years of Marriage = 15.
  2. 2 Calculation: (30% of $120,000) - (20% of $40,000) = $36,000 - $8,000 = $28,000 per year. Duration: 40% of 15 years = 6 years.
  3. 3 Result: Estimated Alimony Payment = $2,333 per month for 6 years.
  4. 4 Context: This estimate helps Spouse B understand potential support, while Spouse A can anticipate their financial obligation. This doesn't account for child support, health insurance, or other specific legal factors that a court might consider, such as a substantial inheritance received by one spouse during the marriage.

Source: IRS — Topic No. 452, Alimony · Last updated: April 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

How is alimony calculated?
There is no single federal formula. Most states consider length of marriage, income disparity, standard of living during marriage, each spouse's earning capacity, age and health, and contributions to the marriage (including homemaking). Some states use guideline formulas.
Is alimony taxable in 2026?
For divorces finalized after December 31, 2018, alimony is not deductible by the payer and not taxable income for the recipient. Divorces finalized before 2019 follow the old rules (deductible by payer, taxable to recipient) unless the agreement is modified.
How long does alimony last?
Duration depends on marriage length and state law. Short marriages (under 10 years) may get temporary support for half the marriage duration. Long marriages (20+ years) may result in permanent alimony. Many states are moving toward rehabilitative (time-limited) alimony.