Estimate general term alimony based on the Massachusetts Alimony Reform Act formula — M.G.L. Chapter 208, §53(b).
This calculator provides estimates only — not legal advice. Alimony in Massachusetts is fact-specific. Courts may deviate from the statutory formula based on a party's need, lifestyle, health, earning capacity, or other circumstances. The result here is a starting framework for understanding the law — not a prediction of what a court will award. For advice on your specific situation, please schedule a consultation.
Use gross (pre-tax) weekly income. To convert annual: divide by 52.
Fill in the fields on the left and click Calculate to see your estimated alimony range.
Courts can deviate from this formula. A consultation will give you a far more accurate picture of your specific situation.
The Massachusetts Alimony Reform Act (2012) introduced a structured formula for General Term Alimony under M.G.L. Chapter 208, §53(b). Here is how it works in three steps.
For each spouse, start with gross weekly income. Subtract any weekly capital gain or interest income, and any income already used in a child support calculation.
Subtract the recipient's available income from the payor's available income. Alimony is based on this difference — not on either income alone.
The statute limits alimony to no more than 30–35% of the income difference. Courts award within this range based on the recipient's need and other circumstances.
| Length of Marriage | Maximum Alimony Duration |
|---|---|
| Up to 5 years | 50% of the number of months of marriage |
| More than 5 years, up to 10 years | 60% of the number of months of marriage |
| More than 10 years, up to 15 years | 70% of the number of months of marriage |
| More than 15 years, up to 20 years | 80% of the number of months of marriage |
| More than 20 years | Court discretion — may be indefinite |
These are maximum durations. Courts frequently award shorter terms. Alimony also terminates automatically upon the death of either party, remarriage of the recipient, recipient's cohabitation for 3+ continuous months, or the payor reaching full Social Security retirement age.
The calculator above estimates General Term Alimony — the most common form. Massachusetts law recognizes three additional types, each with different eligibility requirements.
Ongoing support for a financially dependent spouse. The amount and duration are governed by the statutory formula above. Applies to marriages of any length, though awards are most common in longer marriages.
Supports a spouse who is expected to become self-sufficient through education, training, or re-entry into the workforce. The court sets a defined end date tied to the recipient's rehabilitation plan.
Compensates a spouse for economic contributions to the other's education, training, or career advancement during the marriage. May be paid as a lump sum or in installments.
Short-term support to help a spouse adjust to a new location or lifestyle following divorce. Not based on need in the traditional sense — focused on practical transition costs.