How long does alimony last?

Alimony duration is typically tied to the length of the marriage. A common rule of thumb is one-third to one-half the length of the marriage. For marriages over 20 years, some states allow indefinite alimony.

Can alimony be modified?

In most states, alimony can be modified if there is a significant change in circumstances, such as job loss, retirement, or a significant increase in the recipient spouse earning capacity.

For divorce agreements finalized after December 31, 2018, alimony is no longer tax-deductible for the payer or taxable income for the recipient under federal tax law. Agreements finalized before 2019 follow the old rules unless modified.

How much alimony will I have to pay?

The amount of alimony you pay depends on the income difference between spouses, the length of your marriage, and your state's guidelines. States with formulas (like California, Illinois, and New York) typically calculate alimony as 20–40% of the income difference. In discretionary states, courts weigh multiple factors. Use our free calculator above for a quick estimate based on your specific situation.

What percentage is alimony?

Alimony percentages vary by state. California and Colorado use roughly 40% of the higher earner's income minus 50% of the lower earner's income. Illinois uses 33.3% minus 25%. New York uses 30% minus 20%. Pennsylvania uses 33% of the income difference. Most states without formulas generally award 20–35% of the income difference, though actual amounts depend on judicial discretion.

How to calculate alimony in my state?

To calculate alimony in your state: 1) Determine both spouses' gross annual incomes. 2) Check if your state uses a formula (CA, CO, IL, NY, PA, MA do) or judicial discretion. 3) For formula states, apply the state-specific calculation. 4) Estimate duration based on marriage length — typically one-third to one-half the years married. Use our free alimony calculator to get an instant estimate for any of the 50 states.

Arizona Spousal Maintenance Calculator

Estimate spousal maintenance (alimony / spousal support) for Arizona based on income, marriage length, and state guidelines. This is a starting point, not legal advice — every case is different.

Community Property

Higher earner's annual gross income

Lower earner's annual gross income

Length of marriage (years)

I am the...

How is spousal maintenance calculated in Arizona?

Courts use 2023 spousal maintenance guidelines. Duration ranges by marriage length. The Rule of 65 (age + years of marriage) can extend duration. Under current law, Arizona is a community property state, meaning marital assets are generally divided equally.

Spousal Maintenance (also called alimony, spousal support, maintenance) in Arizona is typically based on factors including: the length of the marriage, each spouse's income and earning potential, the standard of living established during the marriage, age and health of both parties, and each spouse's financial needs and obligations.

How long does spousal maintenance last in Arizona?

Duration is typically tied to the length of the marriage. A common rule of thumb is that spousal maintenance lasts for about one-third to one-half the length of the marriage. The actual duration in Arizona depends on the specific circumstances of your case and judicial discretion.

Spousal Maintenance usually ends when the recipient remarries, either spouse dies, or the court determines the recipient has had enough time to become self-supporting.

Related resources

Arizona Settlement Calculator →

Full settlement projection for Arizona

Alimony Calculator — All States →

Compare alimony estimates across all 50 states

How Long Does Spousal Maintenance Last in Arizona? →

Duration rules, examples, and guidelines for Arizona

Alimony Rules by State →

Formulas, duration guidelines, and key patterns in all 50 states

Run Your Full Settlement Projection →

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How Is Alimony Calculated? →

State-by-state breakdown of formulas and factors

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DISCLAIMER

This calculator provides rough estimates for educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as legal or financial advice. Actual spousal maintenance awards depend on many factors specific to your case, including local court practices, individual circumstances, and judicial discretion. State laws and guidelines change frequently. Consult a family law attorney in Arizona for advice specific to your situation.

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