California Alimony Calculator (Guideline Support)
Use this calculator to estimate temporary spousal support based on the common "Santa Clara" formula used by many California courts. This formula typically applies 40% of the high earner's net income minus 50% of the low earner's net income.
How is Alimony Calculated in California?
In California, spousal support (commonly known as alimony) is divided into two distinct categories: Temporary Spousal Support and Permanent (Long-Term) Spousal Support. The calculation methods for these two types differ significantly.
1. Temporary Spousal Support (The Formula)
Temporary support is awarded during the divorce proceedings to maintain the status quo of the lower-earning spouse. Most counties in California, including Los Angeles and San Francisco, utilize computer programs (like DissoMaster) that adhere to the Santa Clara Guideline Formula.
The standard guideline formula is:
Support = (40% of Payor's Net Income) – (50% of Recipient's Net Income)
Example: If the higher earner takes home $10,000/month and the lower earner takes home $2,000/month:
- 40% of $10,000 = $4,000
- 50% of $2,000 = $1,000
- Alimony = $3,000 per month.
2. Permanent Spousal Support (The 4320 Factors)
Unlike temporary support, "permanent" support (ordered at the final judgment) is prohibited by law from being calculated using a strict mathematical formula. Instead, the judge must weigh the factors outlined in California Family Code §4320, which include:
- The standard of living established during the marriage.
- The marketable skills of the supported party.
- The ability of the supporting party to pay.
- The duration of the marriage.
- Evidence of domestic violence.
- Tax consequences for each party.
The "10-Year Rule" for Duration
The length of the marriage is the primary factor in determining how long alimony payments will last:
- Marriages under 10 years: Support is generally ordered for one-half the length of the marriage. (e.g., an 8-year marriage results in roughly 4 years of payments).
- Marriages of 10 years or more: Considered a "marriage of long duration." The court retains jurisdiction indefinitely. This does not mean support is guaranteed for life, but there is no set termination date; it continues until death, remarriage, or a court order changing it.
Tax Implications
Following the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, for any divorce finalized after December 31, 2018, spousal support payments are no longer tax-deductible for the payer and are tax-free for the recipient for federal tax purposes. California state law, however, may still treat payments as deductible/taxable for state returns.