Book My Consult3

Estimate Alimony Payments

Common methods for calculating spousal support typically take up to 40% of the paying spouse's net income, which is calculated after child support. 50% of the recipient spouse's net income is then subtracted from the total if they are working. Spousal support amounts should be agreed to by both parties and can be waived by the recipient spouse.

Spousal Support (Alimony) in Divorce

When we talk about spousal maintenance, support, and alimony we are talking about the same thing. Although spousal support is not mandatory in most states, it can be mandated by a judge depending on certain conditions, in particular:

  • If one spouse will face hardships without financial support

Court-ordered spousal support is enforced if there is sufficient need to maintain his or the party's standard of living. The courts recognize both parties are entitled to live at the financial level they enjoyed during marriage. It's important to keep track of alimony as there are implications to be aware of when filing taxes after divorce.

Alimony Calculators

Wisconsin Alimony Calculator

Calculator

Illinois Alimony Calculator

Calculator

Considerations

When Is Spousal Support Not Considered?

The presiding judge is unlikely to order alimony under the following conditions:

  • The marriage was less than two or three years.
  • Both spouses are employed and self-sufficient.

How long does Spousal Maintenance last?

The spousal support duration varies depending on the agreements in place.

Timeframes include the following:

  1. Unlimited or indefinite (until the death of either party).
  2. Until the remarriage of the recipient.
  3. Until a fixed end date.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is alimony calculated?

Alimony is calculated differently in different states. In general, the court looks at how much each party needs to achieve their standard of living, how much each party can/should reasonably earn, and how long a party needs to be supported.

How often is alimony awarded?

Alimony is ordered in around 10% of cases. So, alimony happens regularly but isn't a part of most cases.

How can I avoid alimony?

If alimony is on the table in your case, one way to avoid alimony is by paying lump-sum alimony. Lump-sum alimony allows you to pay in one big chunk rather than paying continuously over time. But, once alimony is ordered, there isn’t much you can do to avoid it.

How much is alimony usually?

Alimony is usually around 40% of the paying party’s income. This number is different in different states and different situations. The court also looks at how much the other party makes or could make and how much they need to maintain their standard of living.

Book My Consult