First, take both parties monthly, adjusted gross income and add it together to get their combined, monthly adjusted gross income. Multiply that number by 40%. Subtract the lessor-earning spouse's monthly adjusted gross income. If the number is zero or less, there is no maintenance payable.
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.
Once the court deems that spousal maintenance is appropriate, then it determines the amount and length of alimony based on the following formula: The amount of alimony is equal to 40% of the higher-income party's monthly adjusted gross income, minus 50% of the lower-income party's monthly adjusted gross income.
The maintenance formula works as follows: Calculate 40% of the higher income earning party's gross monthly income. Calculate 50% of the lower-income earning party's gross monthly income. Subtract the 50% figure from the 40% figure.
Self-sufficiency of the Requesting Spouse: If the spouse seeking alimony is young, healthy, has a good education, or possesses marketable skills that enable self-sufficiency, the court may determine that maintenance is not necessary – do note this outcome is extremely rare and unlikely.