Connecticut Alimony Estimator
Estimated Results
Note: Connecticut judges have broad discretion. This tool uses a common guideline (30% of payor's gross minus 20% of payee's gross) which is used by many practitioners for mediation and settlement discussions.
How Alimony Works in Connecticut (CT)
In Connecticut, alimony (also known as spousal support) is governed by Connecticut General Statutes ยง 46b-82. Unlike some states that use a rigid mathematical formula, Connecticut is a "discretionary" state. This means a judge determines the amount and duration of alimony based on a specific set of criteria rather than a fixed calculator.
The Statutory Factors for Alimony
When a court decides whether to award alimony, it must consider several factors:
- Length of the marriage: Longer marriages generally result in longer alimony durations.
- The cause of the breakdown: Connecticut allows "fault" to be considered in the distribution of assets and alimony.
- Age and Health: The physical and emotional state of both parties.
- Station and Occupation: The lifestyle established during the marriage.
- Earning Capacity: Not just what a person is currently making, but what they are capable of earning.
Common Formula Used for Estimates
While there is no "official" formula, many Connecticut family law attorneys use a common guideline to start negotiations. This calculator utilizes the "30% of Payor's Gross – 20% of Payee's Gross" method. Another common approach is taking 30-35% of the difference between the parties' gross incomes.
Example Calculation
Suppose Spouse A earns $120,000 per year and Spouse B earns $40,000 per year, and they were married for 20 years.
- 30% of Spouse A's Income: $36,000
- 20% of Spouse B's Income: $8,000
- Difference: $28,000 per year ($2,333 per month)
- Duration: Often 1/2 the length of the marriage (10 years)
Types of Alimony in CT
Pendente Lite: Temporary support paid while the divorce is pending.
Rehabilitative Alimony: Provided for a specific period to allow the recipient to become self-supporting through education or training.
Lifetime Alimony: Rare today, but sometimes granted in very long-term marriages where the recipient is unlikely to ever enter the workforce.