Alimony in New Jersey
State-specific overview · Family Law
New Jersey uses a statutory formula for alimony based on income, with duration tied to marriage length and caps on high earners.
How New Jersey treats Alimony
New Jersey applies a formula-based approach: the paying spouse's income minus the receiving spouse's income, multiplied by a percentage (generally 30–35% for support), subject to a cap on combined parental income. Alimony duration depends on marriage length—typically 50% of marriage length for marriages under 20 years, and longer or indefinite for marriages of 20+ years. The formula does not apply if combined income exceeds a statutory threshold (currently around $203,000), allowing judges discretion in high-income cases. New Jersey courts may award temporary alimony during divorce and permanent alimony post-judgment, with modification available upon substantial changed circumstances.
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 Jersey.