How is spousal support calculated?

In Washington, spousal support is calculated based upon several factors. These include the length of the marriage, the standard of living of each party during the marriage, their contributions to the marriage (such as caring for children, homemaking, and/or career building) and the earnings and assets of each party. Additionally, when there is an imbalance in income, potential spousal support is calculated based on the difference between the spouses’ incomes and the duration of the marriage. The court may use a chart or formula to help determine spousal support, depending on the circumstances. This formula considers the length of the marriage, the income of the supporting spouse, and the income of the supported spouse. Another consideration is the age and health of each party. The court will also consider other factors such as the need for additional skills or education in order for the supported spouse to be able to be self-supporting. The court may also consider the effect of multiple households on various sources of income such as Social Security, disability, and other benefits. The court will also look at the tax consequences of spousal support and whether there are other sources of support available to the supported spouse. In Washington, spousal support is seen as a form of transition support that enables a person to become self-supporting or to transition to an independent lifestyle. The court will consider the needs, circumstances, and income of each party when making their spousal support determination.

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How is spousal support calculated?

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