Free · Washington · Current law
Understand how Washington courts weigh spousal support — types available, key factors, and a realistic estimate based on your situation.
Enter 0 if the lower-earning spouse is not working
Estimated monthly alimony
—
Washington spousal support statute · Estimate only · not legal advice
Get a plain-English copy of this estimate, the numbers used, and a short checklist for what to review before relying on it.
Purely discretionary — no formula. Courts consider various factors to determine the amount and duration. Key factors: Financial resources of the requesting spouse, financial resources of the paying spouse, standard of living during the marriage, length of the marriage, age and physical condition of each spouse, ability of each spouse to become self-sufficient, time needed to acquire education or training, assets, debts, earning potential, impact of child support Duration: Short marriages (0-5 years): Temporary, to meet basic needs for a few months, rarely extending beyond divorce decree. Mid-length marriages (5-25 years): 20-33% of marriage length, often tapering off. Long-term marriages (25+ years): Many years, potentially for life, aiming to equalize economic positions. General rule of thumb (not strict): 1 year of alimony for every 3-4 years of marriage for mid-length marriages.
We'll match you with a Washington family law attorney — free, no obligation, no pressure.