Spousal Support Duration Estimator
Estimates the likely duration of spousal support (alimony) payments based on the length of the marriage and other relevant factors. Results are general estimates only and not legal advice.
Auto-filled when you calculate, but you may override.
Formulas Used
- One-Third Rule (U.S.): Short marriage → max = L ÷ 3; Medium → L/4 to L/2; Long → L/2 minimum, possibly permanent.
- One-Half Rule (U.S.): Short → max = L ÷ 2; Medium → L/3 to 0.6L; Long → 0.6L minimum, possibly permanent.
- California (AAML): <10 yrs → 0.4L to 0.5L; ≥10 yrs → court retains indefinite jurisdiction (Fam. Code § 4336).
- Texas (Tex. Fam. Code § 8.054): <10 yrs → generally $0; 10–19 yrs → cap 5 yrs; 20–29 yrs → cap 7 yrs; 30+ yrs → cap 10 yrs.
- Canada SSAG (Without-Child): 0.5L to 1.0L; indefinite if marriage ≥ 20 yrs or (recipient age + marriage length) ≥ 65 ("Rule of 65").
Where L = total length of marriage in years.
Assumptions & References
- Calculations use the without-child formula; child-related support obligations are separate.
- Duration estimates assume no disability, domestic violence, or other exceptional circumstances that may extend or create support obligations.
- Retirement age assumed at 65 for adjustment warnings.
- One-Third Rule: American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML) guidelines; widely cited in U.S. case law.
- California: Cal. Fam. Code §§ 4320, 4336; In re Marriage of Perez, 35 Cal.App.4th 77 (1995).
- Texas: Tex. Fam. Code §§ 8.051–8.054 (2023).
- Canada: Spousal Support Advisory Guidelines (SSAG), Dept. of Justice Canada (2008, updated 2016).
- This tool does not constitute legal advice. Outcomes vary significantly by jurisdiction and individual circumstances.