Alimony in California
State-specific overview · Family Law
California applies a formula-based guideline using 40% of the higher earner's income minus 50% of the lower earner's income.
How California treats Alimony
California Family Code § 4320 establishes a statutory formula for spousal support: 40% of the payor's gross monthly income minus 50% of the payee's gross monthly income. This guideline applies to both temporary and permanent support, though courts may deviate based on factors such as marriage length, earning capacity, age, health, and standard of living. Support duration is typically half the length of the marriage for marriages under 10 years; marriages of 10 years or longer may result in indefinite support. The formula applies when income is below a statutory cap, adjusted annually.
The general definition of Alimony
Court-ordered payments from one spouse to another after divorce or separation.
Alimony is money that a court requires one spouse to pay to the other after they divorce or legally separate. It's designed to help the lower-earning spouse maintain a similar standard of living they had during the marriage. The amount and duration depend on factors like how long the marriage lasted, each person's income and earning ability, and their age and health. Alimony is different from child support, which is specifically for children's needs.
Read the full Alimony entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in California.