How Many Years Do You Have to Be Married to Get Alimony in NY?

Couples going through a divorce have many things to worry about, including who has to pay alimony. Alimony in New York is based upon several factors, using a standardized guideline and method of calculation.

Also known as spousal support or spousal maintenance, alimony is meant to help the less financially stable spouse meet their needs until they can become self-supporting.

The divorce attorneys at Levitsky Law Firm PLLC are experienced and ready to help you with your upcoming divorce. Speak with our divorce attorney Brooklyn to learn more about alimony and how it is calculated in New York.

What is alimony?

Alimony is financial support given to one spouse after a divorce to help them maintain their lifestyle while they recover from their ended relationship. In New York, alimony is called maintenance but serves the same purpose.

The amount of alimony and how long its paid varies wildly, depending upon the length of the marriage and each spouse’s income.

How many years do you have to be married to get alimony in NY?

There is no specific timeframe on how long a couple in New York needs to be married for one spouse to receive alimony. How long the couple was married can influence how long the spouse receives spousal support. For example, here are some examples of timeline suggestions for how long a spouse will receive alimony in the event of a divorce:

• 0 to 15 years: 15% to 30% of the duration of the marriage
• 15 to 20 years: 30% to 40% of the time of the marriage
• 20+ years: 35% 50% of the time of the marriage

If you need a divorce lawyer in Brooklyn, look no further. The attorneys at Levitsky Law Firm PLLC put their client’s needs first, doing everything possible to help them navigate the courts and establish the best alimony settlement that is fair to both spouses. So call our office today, and we will help you in every way possible during your divorce.