Connecticut Alimony Estimator
Estimated Guidelines
Note: This is an estimate based on common judicial "rules of thumb" (30% of gross income difference). Connecticut courts have broad discretion and consider many statutory factors.
Understanding Alimony in Connecticut (CT)
Unlike some states that use a rigid mathematical formula, Connecticut is an "equitable distribution" state. This means that under Connecticut General Statutes ยง 46b-82, judges have significant discretion when determining the amount and duration of spousal support (alimony).
How Alimony is Calculated
While there is no official state-mandated formula, many Connecticut legal professionals use a "rule of thumb" as a starting point for negotiations. The calculator above utilizes a common guideline: 30% of the difference between the parties' gross annual incomes.
For example, if the higher-earning spouse makes $150,000 and the lower-earning spouse makes $50,000, the difference is $100,000. 30% of that difference is $30,000 per year, or $2,500 per month.
Statutory Factors Considered by CT Courts
A judge will look far beyond just the income numbers. By law, the court must consider:
- Length of the marriage: Longer marriages generally result in longer alimony durations.
- Cause of the dissolution: Connecticut allows "fault" to be considered, though it is often less significant than financial factors.
- Age and health: The physical and emotional condition of both spouses.
- Station: The lifestyle the couple enjoyed during the marriage.
- Earning Capacity: Not just what a spouse is earning, but what they could earn based on education and experience.
- Estate and Assets: How the property is being divided (the "property settlement").
Duration of Alimony in CT
How long do payments last? In Connecticut, alimony is rarely permanent unless the marriage was of very long duration (usually 20-25+ years) or there are health issues. A common guideline for duration is one-third to one-half the length of the marriage. For a 15-year marriage, a court might order alimony for 5 to 7.5 years.
Modifiability and Termination
In most CT divorce decrees, alimony is modifiable if there is a "substantial change in circumstances," such as a job loss or a significant raise. Alimony typically terminates upon:
- The death of either party.
- The remarriage of the recipient.
- The "cohabitation" of the recipient (under specific statutory definitions).
Tax Implications
Following the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, for all divorces finalized after December 31, 2018, alimony payments are not tax-deductible for the payer and are not considered taxable income for the recipient at the federal level.
Disclaimer: This calculator is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Connecticut alimony law is complex, and you should consult with a qualified family law attorney to understand how the law applies to your specific case.