California Alimony Laws 2026
Complete guide to spousal support in California
California Alimony at a Glance
Types Available
Maximum Duration
Half the marriage for <10 years; indefinite for 10+ years
How Courts Calculate
40% of higher earner - 50% of lower earner
Understanding California Alimony Law
In California, alimony (also called spousal support or spousal maintenance) is financial support paid by one spouse to the other following a divorce or separation. California uses a guideline formula. Marriages over 10 years may yield long-term support.
California courts generally consider the following factors when determining alimony:
- The length of the marriage
- Each spouse's income and earning capacity
- The standard of living established during the marriage
- Each spouse's age, health, and employability
- Contributions to the marriage (including homemaking)
- Child custody arrangements and their impact on earning capacity
Types of Alimony in California
Temporary: Available under California law based on the specific circumstances of each case.
Permanent: Ongoing support with no set end date, typically awarded in long marriages where one spouse has limited earning capacity. May be modified or terminated upon changed circumstances.
Rehabilitative: Designed to support a spouse while they gain education or job skills to become self-sufficient. Typically has a defined end date tied to the completion of a training program or return to the workforce.
Duration of Alimony
In California, the duration of alimony awards is: Half the marriage for <10 years; indefinite for 10+ years. California courts apply a general rule that alimony lasts approximately half the length of the marriage for marriages under 10 years. For marriages of 10 years or longer, the court retains jurisdiction indefinitely.
Modifying or Terminating Alimony
In most cases, alimony in California can be modified or terminated upon a showing of a substantial change in circumstances, such as:
- Significant increase or decrease in either party's income
- Recipient spouse's remarriage
- Recipient spouse's cohabitation with a new partner (in many states)
- Either party's retirement
- Death of either party
Estimate Your California Alimony
Use our calculator to get a rough estimate based on California guidelines.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws change frequently. Consult a licensed California family law attorney for advice specific to your situation.