Partner
When a marriage ends, one of the most important financial questions is whether one spouse will have to pay alimony. In Massachusetts, judges weigh a range of factors to determine whether alimony is appropriate, how much should be paid, and for how long. These decisions are based on law, fairness and the specific circumstances of each couple, including income, lifestyle, and contributions to the marriage.
Understanding How Alimony Works in Massachusetts
Alimony, sometimes called spousal support, is intended to help a lower-earning spouse maintain financial stability after divorce. It’s not automatically granted in every case. The court examines each spouse’s financial resources, earning capacity, and needs to decide if support is warranted. Massachusetts law allows for several types of alimony, including:
- General term alimony: for longer marriages, based on the recipient’s financial need.
- Rehabilitative alimony: short-term support while a spouse becomes self-sufficient.
- Reimbursement alimony: repayment for contributions during the marriage (such as supporting a spouse through school).
- Transitional alimony: brief financial help to adjust to post-divorce life.
Key Factors Judges Evaluate When Determining Alimony
Courts consider many details before issuing an alimony order. The most influential factors often include:
- Length of the marriage: Longer marriages may lead to longer alimony durations.
- Income and earning capacity: A significant difference in income or career opportunities can affect whether support is appropriate.
- Age and health: If one spouse has health challenges or limited future earning potential, it may increase the need for support.
- Contributions to the marriage: This includes both financial contributions and nonfinancial roles, such as homemaking or child-rearing.
- Lifestyle during the marriage: Courts often aim to maintain a standard of living similar to what both parties experienced before the divorce.
- Employment opportunities and training needs: A spouse who left the workforce may need time or education to reenter the workforce successfully.
Each case is unique, and no single factor determines the outcome. Judges have discretion to balance these elements to achieve a fair resolution.
How Duration of Alimony Is Calculated
Massachusetts uses specific guidelines to determine how long alimony should last based on the length of the marriage. For example:
- Marriages of 5 years or less: up to 50% of the marriage length
- More than 5 years but up to 10: up to 60%
- More than 10 but up to 15: up to 70%
- More than 15 but up to 20: up to 80%
- Over 20 years: may be indefinite
Judges may deviate from these guidelines if special circumstances exist, such as illness, disability, or long-term unemployment.
When Alimony Can Be Modified or Ended
Alimony is not always permanent. Either party may request a change if there’s a significant shift in circumstances, such as:
- A substantial increase or decrease in income
- Retirement or loss of employment
- The recipient’s remarriage or cohabitation
- Health or medical changes affecting the ability to pay or the need for support
Understanding how and when to modify an order can help prevent future disputes and ensure fairness over time.
Protecting Your Financial Future After Divorce
You might be wondering what steps to take if you believe you’re entitled to alimony or expected to pay it. We can help you understand your rights, prepare strong financial documentation, and advocate for a fair outcome both in negotiation and in court.
Speak With a Massachusetts Alimony Attorney
Alimony decisions can have lasting financial effects. If you’re facing a divorce or post-divorce modification, we’ll guide you through your options and protect your interests every step of the way.
Contact LaFountain & Wollman, P.C. today to schedule a confidential consultation and learn how we can help you achieve a fair financial settlement.
Frequently Asked Questions About Alimony in Massachusetts
How is the amount of alimony calculated?
There’s no fixed formula, but judges often consider that general term alimony should not exceed the recipient’s need or 30–35% of the difference between the parties’ gross incomes. However, the 30-35% range is not used very often. Instead, most courts will consider a 23-28% range to account for changes to the Federal Tax Code that occurred after the Massachusetts Alimony Reform Statutes went into effect.
Can alimony be changed after the divorce is final?
Yes. Either spouse can ask the court to modify or terminate alimony if there’s a significant change in circumstances, such as job loss, retirement, or the recipient’s remarriage.
Is alimony the same as child support?
No. Alimony supports a former spouse, while child support is for the children’s needs. The court may order both, depending on each party’s situation and financial ability.
Do all divorces involve alimony?
No. Alimony is only awarded when there’s a financial imbalance between the spouses, and one needs support to maintain a reasonable standard of living after divorce.