Spousal Support (Alimony/Maintenance) in Missouri
Most Missouri couples resolve maintenance through negotiation or mediation; if litigated, the judge decides whether support is warranted and, if so, the amount, duration, and structure.
Is there a formula in Missouri?
There is no official maintenance calculator in Missouri. Courts consider need and ability to pay, the marital standard of living, length of marriage, ages and health, earning capacities, and how long it should reasonably take for a spouse to become self-supporting.
A quick way to estimate temporary support
Temporary estimate = 40% of the higher earner’s net monthly income minus 50% of the lower earner’s net monthly income.
This is not Missouri law—just a negotiation tool. Example: If net incomes are $8,000 and $3,500, 40% of $8,000 ($3,200) minus 50% of $3,500 ($1,750) suggests $1,450 per month. Adjust for insurance changes, childcare, major debt, or seasonal income.
Types of spousal support
Missouri uses temporary (pendente lite) maintenance during the case, rehabilitative/transitional maintenance for short-term support, and durational/longer-term maintenance where appropriate. Parties can also agree to a lump-sum/buyout in lieu of monthly payments.
What support covers and what it doesn’t
Maintenance helps with the transition to two households. It is not a punishment and does not replace child support, which is calculated separately.
Ways to structure payments
Consider monthly step-downs, a lump-sum buyout, property or retirement offsets, or targeted expense payments like COBRA, tuition, or rent. Many couples add life-insurance security for the support term.
How Hello Divorce can help
Hello Divorce can prepare all your Missouri divorce forms for you with our divorce plans—and we can help you calculate or negotiate support with our mediators and financial pros.
FAQs
Does Missouri use a set maintenance formula?
No. There is no mandated formula; judges weigh need, ability to pay, and related factors.
How long does maintenance last in Missouri?
It depends on your agreement or order. Rehabilitative and durational terms are common and tailored to the facts.
Can maintenance be modified?
Often yes, if allowed by your order and there is a substantial change in circumstances. Parties can agree to make maintenance non-modifiable.
