Massachusetts Alimony Calculator
Estimate spousal support (alimony) in Massachusetts. Understand the types of alimony available, how courts calculate amounts, and how long payments may last. Updated for 2026.
Under M.G.L. c.208, Section 53, the amount of alimony should generally not exceed the recipient's need or 30-35% of the difference between the parties' gross incomes at the time of the order. The court may deviate from this range based on the statutory factors. Duration limits are tied to the length of the marriage as specified in Section 49.
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Get Started with Divorce.aiTypes of Alimony in Massachusetts
General Term Alimony
Under M.G.L. c.208, Section 48, periodic payment of support to an economically dependent spouse. Duration is capped based on the length of marriage: up to 50% of months married (0-5 years), 60% (5-10 years), 70% (10-15 years), 80% (15-20 years), or indefinite (20+ years).
Rehabilitative Alimony
Under M.G.L. c.208, Section 50, periodic support to a spouse expected to become self-sufficient by a predicted time (e.g., completion of job training or education). Maximum duration is 5 years.
Reimbursement Alimony
Under M.G.L. c.208, Section 51, periodic or one-time payment to compensate a spouse for economic or noneconomic contributions to the marriage (e.g., supporting the other spouse through school). Available only for marriages of 5 years or less. Cannot be modified once ordered.
Transitional Alimony
Under M.G.L. c.208, Section 52, periodic or one-time payment to help a spouse transition to an adjusted lifestyle or location after divorce. Available only for marriages of 5 years or less. Maximum duration is 3 years. Cannot be modified or extended.
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Factors Massachusetts Courts Consider
When determining whether to award alimony and how much, Massachusetts courts evaluate:
Length of the marriage
Age of the parties
Health of the parties
Income, employment, and employability of both parties
Economic and non-economic contribution of both parties to the marriage
Marital lifestyle
Ability of each party to maintain the marital lifestyle
Lost economic opportunity as a result of the marriage
Employability through reasonable diligence and additional training if necessary
How Long Does Alimony Last?
While there is no universal rule, alimony duration in Massachusetts generally correlates with the length of the marriage:
| Marriage Length | Typical Alimony Duration |
|---|---|
| Under 5 years | 0-2 years |
| 5-10 years | 2-5 years |
| 10-20 years | 5-10 years |
| 20+ years | Indefinite / Permanent |
These are general guidelines. Actual duration depends on the specific facts of your case and the court's discretion.
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Divorce.ai helps you understand potential alimony in your Massachusetts divorce so you can plan your finances with confidence.
When Does Alimony End?
Tax Implications of Alimony
Post-2018 Federal Tax Rules
For divorces finalized after December 31, 2018, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act changed the tax treatment of alimony:
For the Payer
Alimony payments are not deductible from federal taxes.
For the Recipient
Alimony payments are not taxable income for federal taxes.
State tax treatment may differ. Consult a tax professional for advice specific to your situation.