What is Florida Alimony?

Florida alimony, also known as spousal support, is a financial provision awarded to a spouse following a divorce or separation. It is designed to provide financial assistance to the lower-earning spouse, helping them maintain a standard of living similar to what they experienced during the marriage.

The purpose of alimony is to address any economic imbalance that may result from the dissolution of marriage.

How to Use the Florida Alimony Calculator?

1. Duration of Marriage: Enter the number of years you were married. This is crucial as it affects the type and duration of alimony that may be awarded.

2. Payer’s Monthly Net Income: Input the monthly net income of the spouse who would potentially pay alimony. This is typically the higher-earning spouse.

3. Payee’s Monthly Net Income: Enter the monthly net income of the spouse who would potentially receive alimony. This is usually the lower-earning spouse.

4. Type of Alimony: Select the type of alimony from the dropdown menu. The options are:

• Bridge-the-Gap: Short-term support to help transition from married to single life.
• Rehabilitative: Supports a spouse while they acquire education or training to become self-sufficient.
• Durational: Provides economic assistance for a set period after a short or moderate-term marriage.

5. Calculate: Click the “Calculate Alimony” button to generate an estimate.

The calculator will then display:

• Estimated Monthly Alimony: This is calculated based on 35% of the difference between the payer’s and payee’s incomes, not exceeding 40% of the payer’s income.
• Estimated Duration: The length of time alimony may be paid, based on the type of alimony and duration of marriage.
• Explanation: A brief description of why the duration was calculated as such.

It’s important to note that this calculator provides an estimate based on general guidelines. Actual alimony awards can vary significantly based on numerous factors that a court may consider, such as:

• The standard of living established during the marriage
• Age and physical/emotional condition of each party
• Financial resources of each party
• Earning capacities, educational levels, and employability of each party
• Contribution of each party to the marriage
• Responsibilities each party will have with regard to any minor children

Additionally, Florida law has undergone recent changes, particularly with the elimination of permanent alimony. The calculator takes into account these changes, focusing on the more common types of alimony currently awarded.

While this tool can provide a helpful estimate, it should not be considered legal advice. Alimony determinations can be complex, and it’s always recommended to consult with a qualified family law attorney for personalized advice based on your specific situation.