Divorce in New Hampshire

Spousal Support (Alimony) in New Hampshire

Written by Hello Divorce Team | Sep 10, 2025 5:38:43 PM

Most New Hampshire couples negotiate alimony in mediation and submit agreed terms for approval. If litigated, the court decides amount, duration, and structure under state factors.

Is there a formula in New Hampshire?

There is no official statewide alimony calculator in New Hampshire. Courts weigh need and ability to pay, length of the marriage, the marital standard of living, ages/health, earning capacity, and the time reasonably needed 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 a negotiation tool, not law. Example: If net incomes are $7,000 and $2,800, then 40% of $7,000 ($2,800) minus 50% of $2,800 ($1,400) suggests $1,400 per month. Adjust for health-insurance changes, childcare, major debt, or seasonal income.

Types of spousal support

Common structures include temporary support during the case, rehabilitative/transitional support to regain earning capacity, durational/longer-term by agreement, reimbursement in limited situations, and lump-sum/buyout options.

What support covers and what it doesn’t

Alimony is transition assistance as two households are established. It is not punishment and does not duplicate child support, which is calculated separately.

Ways to structure payments

Use monthly step-downs, a lump-sum buyout, property/retirement offsets, or targeted expense payments such as COBRA, tuition, or rent. Many couples secure alimony with life-insurance for the support term.

How Hello Divorce can help

Hello Divorce can prepare all your New Hampshire divorce forms for you with our divorce plans.
Hello Divorce can help you calculate or negotiate support with our mediators and financial pros.

FAQs

Is there an official alimony calculator in New Hampshire?
No. New Hampshire has no mandated calculator; courts weigh need, ability to pay, and related factors.

How long does alimony last in New Hampshire?
It depends on your agreement or order. Rehabilitative and durational terms are common and tailored to the marriage and budgets.

Can alimony be modified later?
Often yes, if permitted by your order and there is a material change in circumstances; parties may also agree to non-modifiable terms.