California determines alimony based on the recipient's “marital standard of living,” which aims to allow the spouse to continue living in a similar manner as during the marriage.
Child support is never deductible and isn't considered income. Additionally, if a divorce or separation instrument provides for alimony and child support, and the payer spouse pays less than the total required, the payments apply to child support first. Only the remaining amount is considered alimony.
The person asking for alimony must show the court that he or she needs financial support, and that the other spouse has the ability to provide financial support.
Misconduct: Certain behaviors can also lead to the disqualification of alimony. For instance, if a spouse is found to have engaged in financial misconduct, such as hiding assets or failing to disclose financial information during the divorce proceedings, this can result in disqualification.
Because child support is so important, the law sets a very high limit on the amount that can be withheld from your paycheck for this purpose. If you are not currently supporting another child or spouse who are not the subject of the order, up to 60% of your wages can be garnished.
Effective March 1, 2024, for the next two years, the income cap for child support calculations is $183,000 (up from $163,000) and the income cap for maintenance is $228,000 (up from $203,000). Child support is calculated using the formula in the Child Support Standards Act DRL §240, FCA §413.
Estimate Alimony Payments. Common methods for calculating spousal support typically take up to 40% of the paying spouse's net income, which is calculated after child support. 50% of the recipient spouse's net income is then subtracted from the total if they are working.
You are not legally obligated to support her. If a divorce is filed the court could make alimony retroactive.