Estimated Monthly Alimony
Disclaimer: This is a simplified educational estimate, not legal advice. Hawaii law does not use a strict formula. A judge considers many factors to determine the final amount and duration of alimony.
Information based on Hawaii guidelines as of November 2025.
Understanding Alimony (Spousal Support) in Hawaii
Alimony, referred to as spousal support or maintenance in Hawaii, is a court-ordered payment from one spouse to the other after a divorce. Its purpose is to limit any unfair economic effects of a divorce by providing continuing income to a lower-earning or non-earning spouse. Unlike child support, there is no strict formula for calculating alimony in Hawaii. Judges have significant discretion and base their decisions on the specific circumstances of each case.
Who May Qualify for Alimony in Hawaii?
Either spouse can request alimony. The court will award spousal support only if it finds that one spouse needs financial assistance and the other has the ability to provide it. Key considerations include:
- A significant difference in the spouses' incomes or earning capacities.
- One spouse sacrificed career opportunities or education for the benefit of the family.
- The need for time and resources to gain skills or education to become self-sufficient.
- The inability to maintain a standard of living similar to that enjoyed during the marriage without support.
Key Factors Hawaii Courts Consider
Marriage Duration
The length of the marriage is a critical factor. Longer marriages often result in longer terms of alimony, and in some cases, indefinite support.
Financial Disparity
The court analyzes each spouse's income, assets, debts, and ability to earn in the future. A large gap often points toward a need for support.
Standard of Living
The lifestyle established during the marriage is a benchmark. Courts may try to ensure both parties can live reasonably, though not necessarily identically, post-divorce.
Age and Health
The age and physical and emotional health of each spouse are considered, as they directly impact their ability to work and be self-supporting.
Contributions to Marriage
The court values both financial and non-financial contributions, such as homemaking, childcare, and supporting the other's career.
Child Custody
The responsibilities of a custodial parent, which may limit their earning capacity, are taken into account when determining alimony.
Types of Spousal Support in Hawaii
| Type | Purpose | Typical Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Temporary Alimony | To provide financial support to a spouse during the divorce proceedings. | Ends when the divorce is finalized. |
| Rehabilitative Alimony | To support a spouse while they acquire education or job training to become self-sufficient. | A fixed period based on the rehabilitative plan. |
| Transitional Alimony | To help a spouse transition from married to single life and adjust to a new standard of living. | Typically short-term, for a few years post-divorce. |
| Permanent/Indefinite Alimony | Long-term support, usually in long-duration marriages where one spouse is unlikely to become self-sufficient. | Can last until the death of either spouse or the remarriage of the recipient. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Hawaii law does not provide a specific formula for calculating alimony. Family Court judges consider a list of statutory factors, including the length of the marriage, each party's financial condition, standard of living, age, and health. The decision is discretionary, aiming for a fair and equitable outcome. Our calculator provides an estimate based on common approaches but cannot predict a judge's final decision.
The duration varies. A commonly used guideline is that alimony may be paid for one year for every three or four years of marriage, but this is not a strict rule. For very long marriages (e.g., over 20 years), support could be indefinite. For short marriages, it might only last for a year or two, or not be awarded at all.
Yes. Unless the divorce decree states that alimony is non-modifiable, either party can petition the court to change or terminate the alimony award if there has been a "substantial and material change" in the financial circumstances of either party (e.g., job loss, promotion, retirement).
For divorce agreements executed after December 31, 2018, alimony payments are NOT tax-deductible for the paying spouse and are NOT considered taxable income for the recipient spouse at the federal level. Hawaii tax law generally aligns with this federal standard. You should consult a tax professional for advice on your specific situation.
Generally, the obligation to pay alimony terminates automatically upon the remarriage of the recipient spouse. Cohabitation (living with a new partner) may also be grounds to petition the court for a modification or termination of alimony, as it can be seen as a substantial change in financial circumstances.
