Wisconsin Maintenance (Alimony) Calculator

What Is Wisconsin Maintenance (Alimony)?

In Wisconsin, maintenance (sometimes called alimony or spousal support) is money one spouse may be ordered to pay the other after divorce. Courts award maintenance to achieve two main goals:

1. Support the recipient so they can maintain a reasonable standard of living.
2. Promote fairness by addressing income gaps created during the marriage.

Unlike child support, there’s no strict formula. Instead, Wisconsin courts look at many factors, including:

• Each spouse’s income and earning ability
• Length of the marriage
• Age and health of each spouse
• Contributions to the marriage (financial and non-financial)
• Education, work experience, and time out of the workforce

Because of this, outcomes vary widely from case to case.

How the Wisconsin Alimony Calculator Works

The calculator on this page simplifies the process by using an equalization model. Here’s how it breaks things down:

1. Payor’s Income – The gross monthly income of the spouse who may be ordered to pay.
2. Recipient’s Income – The gross monthly income of the spouse who may receive support.
3. Length of Marriage – A major factor in how long maintenance might last.
4. Recipient’s Health – Poor or fair health can increase the likelihood or length of support.

The tool then:

• Combines both incomes.
• Targets the recipient’s income toward about 40% of the total combined income.
• Calculates a payment range (±15% around that target).
• Provides a duration analysis based on the length of the marriage:
  • Short-term marriage (<10 years): Limited or no maintenance.
  • Mid-term marriage (10–19 years): Often half the length of the marriage.
  • Long-term marriage (20+ years): Potential for indefinite support.

Example: How the Calculator Estimates Payments

Let’s walk through an example:

• Payor earns $7,500 per month.
• Recipient earns $2,500 per month.
• Married for 18 years.
• Recipient’s health: Fair.

The calculator might suggest:

• Estimated Monthly Payment: $1,600 – $2,100
• Duration: Around 9 years (half the marriage length)
• Health Factor: Recipient’s fair health could weigh in favor of longer support.

This doesn’t mean the court will order that exact amount. It’s just a guideline for understanding possibilities.

Why You Should Use This Calculator

• Quick insight: Get an immediate estimate without digging through statutes.
• Better preparation: Understand what numbers you might be facing before speaking with an attorney.
• Clarity during negotiations: Helps both sides discuss realistic ranges instead of vague guesses.

Limitations of the Calculator

This tool is educational. Wisconsin courts have broad discretion, and real outcomes depend on unique facts. For example:

• A judge may weigh career sacrifices differently.
• The presence of children or property division may shift priorities.
• Exceptional health or disability issues can override guideline estimates.

Always treat the calculator as a starting point, not a guaranteed outcome. For real legal advice, consult a qualified Wisconsin family law attorney.