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New York Spousal Maintenance Calculator
Estimate guideline maintenance (alimony) and how long it may last, with the figures in effect since March 1, 2026.
New York spousal maintenance calculator
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This calculator estimates the guideline amount under New York law using the statutory figures effective March 1, 2026. It is general information, not legal advice, and using it does not create an attorney client relationship. A court or a written agreement can arrive at a different number. Nothing you enter is saved or sent to the firm.
How New York calculates maintenance
New York calls alimony “maintenance.” Since 2016 the amount starts with a formula in the Domestic Relations Law. The calculator runs it the way a court does:
Income
Each spouse’s gross income is reduced by Social Security and Medicare tax. The higher income is counted only up to $241,000.
Two calculations
A: 30% of the higher income minus 20% of the lower. If the higher earner will also pay child support, it is 20% minus 25%. B: 40% of the combined income minus the lower income.
The lower result
The guideline amount is the lower of A and B. If that is zero or less, the formula calls for no maintenance.
The same formula is used for temporary maintenance while a divorce is pending and for maintenance after the divorce. When child support is also being paid, maintenance is worked out first and then counted in the child support calculation.
How long maintenance lasts
For maintenance after the divorce, the statute gives an advisory schedule based on the length of the marriage:
- Up to 15 years: 15% to 30% of the length of the marriage
- More than 15 and up to 20 years: 30% to 40%
- More than 20 years: 35% to 50%
The schedule is advisory. The court can set a shorter or longer period, or no end date, based on the circumstances.
What the calculator cannot tell you
- Whether the court would adjust the formula amount because it is unjust or inappropriate
- How a court will treat the higher earner’s income above $241,000
- Whether income should be imputed to either spouse
- How maintenance interacts with the division of property and with child support in your case
Maintenance is often the most negotiated term in a divorce. If the two of you have settled on a number, an uncontested divorce is a flat fee. If not, a free consultation will give you the realistic range.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this the amount a court will order?
Can we agree to no maintenance, or a different amount?
How long does maintenance last in New York?
What is the income cap for maintenance?
Does maintenance change child support?
Talk to a Suffolk County attorney today.
Consultations are free, confidential, and available by phone, video, or at either office.