Alimony—also known as spousal support or maintenance—is a financial arrangement intended to support one spouse following a divorce or separation. But how is alimony calculated in Maryland? Unlike child support, there is no strict formula. Instead, Maryland courts evaluate a range of factors to determine if alimony should be awarded, how much, and for how long.
At Jacobson Family Law, we help clients navigate this complex process with clarity and confidence. Below, we outline the key factors Maryland courts consider when calculating alimony.
🕰️ 1. Length of the Marriage
The duration of the marriage is one of the most important considerations. Generally, the longer the marriage, the more likely the court is to award long-term or indefinite alimony.
💵 2. Financial Need and Ability to Pay
Maryland courts assess both the financial need of the spouse requesting alimony and the other spouse’s ability to pay. The requesting spouse must demonstrate that they require support to maintain stability post-divorce.
💼 3. Standard of Living During the Marriage
The goal of alimony is often to allow both parties to maintain a comparable standard of living to what they had during the marriage—especially for lower-earning spouses who may have made career sacrifices.
🩺 4. Age and Health of Both Spouses
Courts may consider each spouse’s age, physical health, and emotional well-being. A spouse facing health challenges may require more support, especially if those challenges limit their ability to work.
👩👧👦 5. Contributions to the Marriage
Non-financial contributions—such as raising children, homemaking, and supporting a spouse’s career—can influence alimony awards. Courts recognize both financial and personal sacrifices made during the marriage.
💼 6. Earning Capacity and Career Potential
The earning potential of each spouse plays a significant role. If one spouse earns or can earn significantly more, the court may award alimony to bridge the income gap, particularly if the requesting spouse needs time or training to reenter the workforce.
🎓 7. Education and Job Skills
A spouse’s educational background and vocational skills can affect the calculation of alimony. The court may consider whether the spouse requesting support needs training or education to become financially independent.
❗ 8. Circumstances Leading to the Divorce
While Maryland is a no-fault divorce state, the court may still take into account factors like abuse or infidelity if they significantly contributed to the breakdown of the marriage.
✍️ 9. Existing Agreements Between the Parties
If a prenuptial agreement or marital settlement agreement exists that addresses or waives alimony, the court typically honors that agreement—unless it’s found to be unconscionable or unfair.
💰 10. Financial Resources Available to Each Party
The court evaluates all available financial resources, including assets, income, and potential inheritances. Even non-marital property can impact the decision if it significantly alters a party’s financial position.
🏡 11. Monetary Awards and Use of Family Property
In some cases, the court may grant a monetary award or possession of family property—such as the marital home. These decisions can affect the necessity and amount of alimony awarded.
📘 Need Help Understanding Alimony in Maryland?
If you’re navigating a divorce and wondering how alimony is calculated in Maryland, Jacobson Family Law is here to support you every step of the way. Our comprehensive resource, Securing Your Financial Future: The Essential Guide to Alimony, provides a clear breakdown of the process and empowers you to make informed decisions.
👉 Click here to purchase the guide
🤝 Work with an Experienced Maryland Divorce Attorney
Because alimony laws are complex and often change, it’s crucial to work with an attorney who understands Maryland family law. At Jacobson Family Law, we specialize in drama-free divorce solutions and helping clients secure a stable financial future.
📞 Call us at 443-741-1147 or
📅 Schedule a Consultation
