California Alimony (Spousal Support) Estimator

Estimate spousal support payments in California. Free calculator based on common county guidelines and Family Code §4320 factors.

Estimate spousal support (alimony) based on income differences, marriage duration, and common California county guidelines. This is a rough estimate — actual amounts depend on the 12 factors in Family Code §4320.

Higher Earner
Lower Earner

Only relevant if children are involved

How This Estimator Works

This estimator uses the Santa Clara guideline (40% of higher earner's net income minus 50% of lower earner's net income), which many California counties use as a reference for temporary spousal support. Duration is estimated based on marriage length: short-term marriages (under 10 years) typically receive support for half the marriage duration; long-term marriages may receive indefinite support.

Reference: California Family Code §4320 (12 factors for spousal support)

⚠️ Important Notes

  • This is an estimate only. Actual court-ordered support varies significantly.
  • Permanent spousal support has no fixed formula — judges have broad discretion.
  • Spousal support is separate from child support. Both may be ordered in the same case.
  • Tax treatment: For divorces after 2018, spousal support is neither deductible nor taxable.
  • Consult a licensed California attorney for legal advice about your specific situation.

Related Resources

⚠️ Legal Disclaimer

The information on this website is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. No attorney-client relationship is formed. You should consult with a licensed attorney in California for advice regarding your individual legal situation. We make no representations about the accuracy or completeness of the information on this site. Your use of this website or its tools does not create an attorney-client relationship.