Alimony in New York
State-specific overview · Family Law
New York uses statutory formulas for temporary and post-divorce maintenance, with duration tied to marriage length.
How New York treats Alimony
New York applies a formula-based approach to spousal maintenance (alimony), calculating payments as a percentage of combined parental income up to a statutory cap. The duration of maintenance depends on the length of the marriage: marriages under 15 years typically receive support for 15–35% of the marriage length, while longer marriages may receive indefinite support. Courts may deviate from the formula if it would be unjust or inappropriate given the circumstances of the case.
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 York.