Alimony in New Hampshire
State-specific overview · Family Law
New Hampshire calls alimony "spousal support" and bases awards on need, ability to pay, and a statutory factor list.
How New Hampshire treats Alimony
New Hampshire courts award spousal support when one spouse cannot meet reasonable needs and the other has the ability to pay. The state considers factors including length of marriage, age, health, earning capacity, standard of living, and contributions to the marriage, but does not apply a rigid income formula. Judges may award temporary support during divorce and permanent support in longer marriages or when the receiving spouse cannot achieve self-sufficiency. New Hampshire allows modification or termination of support if circumstances change significantly.
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 New Hampshire.