Massachusetts uses a guideline formula for temporary spousal support and a multi-factor analysis for permanent support. Understand your eligibility, estimated amount, and likely duration under M.G.L. c. 208, §§ 48–55 (2011 Alimony Reform Act).
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Temporary support in Massachusetts is calculated using a guideline formula during the divorce proceedings to maintain the financial status quo.
Amount cap: 30–35% of gross income difference. Duration caps for general term alimony: <=5yr = 50% of months married, 5–10yr = 60%, 10–15yr = 70%, 15–20yr = 80%, 20+ = indefinite.
Permanent (long-term) support in Massachusetts is determined by a statutory multi-factor analysis under M.G.L. c. 208, §§ 48–55 (2011 Alimony Reform Act). The court weighs the following factors to arrive at a fair support amount and duration. Unlike the temporary formula, there is no mathematical calculation for permanent support — it is a discretionary determination by the judge based on the totality of the circumstances.
The types of spousal support available in Massachusetts include: General term (duration caps apply), Rehabilitative (max 5 years), Reimbursement (<=5yr marriage, non-modifiable), Transitional (<=5yr marriage, max 3 years, non-modifiable). The type ordered depends on the length of the marriage, each spouse's financial situation, and the supported spouse's ability to become self-supporting.
Primary statute: M.G.L. c. 208, §§ 48–55 (2011 Alimony Reform Act)
The court considers these 8 statutory factors when determining the amount and duration of spousal support:
Length of the marriage
Conduct of the parties during the marriage (FAULT IS A FACTOR)
Age of the parties
Health of the parties
Station and occupation
Amount and sources of income
Vocational skills and employability
Estate, liabilities, and needs of each party
General term: <=5yr = 50%, 5–10yr = 60%, 10–15yr = 70%, 15–20yr = 80%, 20+ = indefinite. Age 67 termination for general term alimony at payor's full retirement age.
Duration is one of the most heavily litigated aspects of spousal support. The length of the marriage is the single most important factor in most cases, but the court also considers the supported spouse's age, health, job skills, and the time needed to acquire education or training for appropriate employment.
2011 Alimony Reform Act comprehensively reformed Massachusetts alimony with 4 types and duration caps.
Amount cap: 30–35% of gross income difference.
Age 67 termination: general term alimony terminates at payor's full retirement age.
Cohabitation: 3+ continuous months triggers suspension/reduction/termination — shorter threshold than most states.
FAULT IS A FACTOR in both property division and alimony.
Find out if you qualify, how much you might receive (or pay), and for how long.
Residency Requirement
12-month residency requirement
Mandatory Waiting Period
No mandatory waiting period for no-fault divorce
No-Fault Ground
Irretrievable breakdown
State Income Tax
Flat 5%
Massachusetts Child Support Calculator
Income shares model under MA Child Support Guidelines
Massachusetts Property Division Calculator
No presumption — ALL PROPERTY is divisible (nationally unique "all property" / "kitchen sink" state)
Massachusetts Divorce Settlement Calculator
Complete 8-chapter divorce analysis for Massachusetts
Massachusetts uses a formula for temporary spousal support: Amount cap: 30–35% of gross income difference. Duration caps for general term alimony: <=5yr = 50% of months married, 5–10yr = 60%, 10–15yr = 70%, 15–20yr = 80%, 20+ = indefinite. For permanent support, the court applies a multi-factor analysis under M.G.L. c. 208, §§ 48–55 (2011 Alimony Reform Act).
Massachusetts recognizes the following types of spousal support: General term (duration caps apply), Rehabilitative (max 5 years), Reimbursement (<=5yr marriage, non-modifiable), Transitional (<=5yr marriage, max 3 years, non-modifiable). The type awarded depends on the length of the marriage, the financial needs of the requesting spouse, and the ability of the other spouse to pay.
General term: <=5yr = 50%, 5–10yr = 60%, 10–15yr = 70%, 15–20yr = 80%, 20+ = indefinite. Age 67 termination for general term alimony at payor's full retirement age.
Yes. Spousal support orders in Massachusetts can generally be modified if there is a material change in circumstances, such as a significant change in either party's income, retirement, cohabitation of the supported spouse, or other qualifying events as defined by statute.
Get a personalized spousal support analysis based on Massachusetts's actual statutory framework.
Start My Free MassachusettsEstimate →This tool provides educational estimates based on Massachusetts family law and does not constitute legal advice. Spousal support calculations are estimates and may differ from court-ordered amounts. Consult a licensed Massachusetts family law attorney before making decisions. Primary statute: M.G.L. c. 208, §§ 48–55 (2011 Alimony Reform Act).