Free California Alimony Calculator
This California alimony calculator estimates temporary spousal support with the Santa Clara County formula, and shows how long support usually lasts.
Estimate only, not legal advice. This calculator applies the published California rules to the numbers you enter. A judge can order a different amount, and the result depends on how income is proven in your case. Settle101 is not a law firm. For advice on your situation, talk to a family-law attorney, legal aid or your state's child support agency.
How California alimony (spousal support) is calculated
Santa Clara County's Local Family Rule 3(C) says temporary support "is generally computed by taking 40% of the net income of the payor, minus 50% of the net income of the payee, adjusted for tax consequences". If there is child support, the formula uses net income not already allocated to child support. Other counties may use the same or a different method, so check your county's local family rules.
Worked example
The higher earner nets $10,000 a month and pays $1,500 in child support, leaving $8,500. The lower earner nets $3,000. 40% of $8,500 is $3,400; minus 50% of $3,000 ($1,500) gives about $1,900 a month in temporary support.
Long-term support after the divorce
The formula does not apply to the final judgment. The judge considers the factors in Family Code 4320, including:
- each spouse's earning capacity and the marketable skills of the supported spouse
- the standard of living during the marriage
- the paying spouse's ability to pay
- the length of the marriage, age and health
- any history of domestic violence
- the goal that the supported spouse becomes self-supporting within a reasonable time
What this calculator does not include
- The tax adjustment that court software applies.
- Calculating net income from gross pay: enter take-home pay after taxes and mandatory deductions.
- Local rules in counties that use a different method.
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Frequently asked questions
How is spousal support calculated in California?
Temporary spousal support while the divorce is pending is usually set with a formula: 40% of the higher earner’s net income minus 50% of the lower earner’s, after any child support. Long-term support in the final judgment has no formula; the judge weighs the factors in Family Code section 4320.
How long does spousal support last in California?
For a marriage under 10 years, a reasonable period is generally half the length of the marriage (Family Code 4320(l)). A marriage of 10 years or more is presumed to be of long duration, and the court keeps jurisdiction with no set end date (Family Code 4336).
Is California alimony the same as spousal support?
Yes. California law uses the term spousal support (or partner support for registered domestic partners). People often search for a California alimony calculator, but the law and court forms say spousal support.
Why might the court’s number differ from this?
Courts use certified software that also adjusts for taxes, and the local rule says the formula is "generally" used. Your county may use a different method, and the judge can depart from it.