Massachusetts laws ...the amount of alimony should generally not exceed the recipient's need or 30 to 35% of the difference between the parties' gross incomes established at the time of the order being issued.
Massachusetts Alimony Requirements One of the most notable alterations is the provision generally specifying that alimony orders terminate when the payor reaches “full retirement age.” The age of retirement is based on Social Security guidelines, currently set between age 66 and 67.
The purpose of alimony is to ensure both spouses can easily maintain their former lifestyle post-divorce. To qualify for alimony support, the receiving spouse must prove financial hardship and make a case for monetary assistance, whether temporary or long-term.
Alameda and Contra Costa counties have adopted the “Alameda Guideline” formula. The guideline states that the paying spouse's support be presumptively 40% of his or her net monthly income, reduced by one-half of the receiving spouse's net monthly income.
40% of the high earner's net monthly income minus 50% of the low earner's net monthly income. For instance, if Spouse A earns $5,000 per month and Spouse B earns $2,500 per month, temporary spousal support might be calculated as follows: 40% of $5,000 = $2,000. 50% of $2,500 = $1,250.
Between 10 and 15 years: general term alimony can last for no longer than 70% of the number of months of the marriage. Between 15 and 20 years: general term alimony can last for no longer than 80% of the number of months of the marriage. Longer than 20 years: general term alimony can last indefinitely.
To qualify for alimony support, the receiving spouse must prove financial hardship and make a case for monetary assistance, whether temporary or long-term.