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Connecticut Alimony Calculator (2026)

C.G.S. §46b‑82 gives Connecticut judges broad discretion to set alimony, and there is no statutory formula. Courts increasingly favor time‑limited awards, so the figures below are only a rule‑of‑thumb estimate, not a legal requirement.

Reviewed 2026-09-02 · Estimates only — not legal or financial advice.

Connecticut has no statutory alimony formula. Courts decide case by case under C.G.S. § 46b-82. The calculator below shows a widely used rule of thumb (the AAML guideline) as a negotiation starting point — it is not the law and a judge may land anywhere the factors justify.
Before taxes.
Before taxes.
The law behind this calculator: Connecticut alimony factors — C.G.S. § 46b-82.

How Connecticut calculates it

  • Calculate 30% of the higher‑earning spouse’s gross annual income.
  • Calculate 20% of the lower‑earning spouse’s gross annual income.
  • Subtract the lower‑earner amount from the higher‑earner amount to get a preliminary yearly support figure.
  • Apply the 40% cap so the recipient’s total income does not exceed 40% of the couple’s combined income, reducing the amount if necessary.
  • Use the marriage‑length guide to estimate duration: 30% of the marriage length if under 3 years, 50% for 3–10 years, 75% for 10–20 years, and indefinite for over 20 years.

Worked example

In the sample case, the higher‑earning spouse makes $100,000 per year and the lower‑earning spouse makes $40,000 per year after a 12‑year marriage. Applying the rule‑of‑thumb, 30% × $100,000 = $30,000 and 20% × $40,000 = $8,000, giving a difference of $22,000 per year. The 40% income‑cap reduces this to $16,000 per year, or about $1,333 per month. For a 12‑year marriage, the duration guide (75% of 144 months) suggests roughly 108 months of support. Remember, Connecticut courts are not bound by these numbers.

Frequently asked questions

How is alimony calculated in Connecticut?

Connecticut has no statutory alimony formula; judges consider the factors listed in C.G.S. §46b‑82 and often use the 30%‑of‑higher‑earner minus 20%‑of‑lower‑earner rule‑of‑thumb as a starting point.

Is alimony taxable in Connecticut?

Alimony is not deductible by the payer nor taxable to the recipient under current federal law, and Connecticut follows the federal treatment, so it is not subject to state income tax.

Can alimony be awarded for a limited time in Connecticut?

Yes. Connecticut courts increasingly award time‑limited alimony, using guidelines such as 30%‑50%‑75% of the marriage length to suggest a reasonable duration.

How does the 40% income cap affect the support amount?

If the calculated support would raise the recipient’s total income above 40% of the combined earnings, the amount is reduced so the recipient’s income stays at or below that 40% threshold.

What recent trends have affected Connecticut alimony awards?

While the statute hasn’t changed, recent case law shows judges leaning toward shorter, time‑limited alimony and relying on the rule‑of‑thumb rather than indefinite awards.

Is the calculation different in Bridgeport, New Haven or Hartford?

No. C.G.S. § 46b-82 applies statewide, so courts in Bridgeport, New Haven, Hartford and every other county start from the same guideline. Local practice can differ in how judges weigh deviation factors and in typical negotiated outcomes, but the formula on this page is the one used across Connecticut.

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