Most North Dakota couples settle spousal support through negotiation or mediation and submit agreed terms for court approval. If litigated, the judge decides amount, duration, and structure using equitable factors.
There is no official spousal support calculator in North Dakota. Courts weigh need and ability to pay, marital standard of living, length of marriage, ages/health, earning capacity, and time reasonably needed to become self-supporting.
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 7,400 and 3,100, 40% of 7,400 (2,960) minus 50% of 3,100 (1,550) suggests 1,410 per month. Adjust for insurance changes, childcare, major debt, or seasonal income.
Temporary (pendente lite) support during the case.
Rehabilitative support to regain earning capacity through training or education.
Longer-term support by agreement or where self-support is uncertain.
Lump-sum/buyout using cash or property offsets.
Support is transition help while two households are established. It is not punishment and does not duplicate child support, which is calculated separately.
Monthly payments with planned step-downs.
Lump-sum buyout to simplify administration.
Property or retirement offsets instead of cash.
Targeted expense payments (COBRA, rent, tuition) or hybrids.
Life-insurance security for the support term.
Hello Divorce can prepare all your North Dakota divorce forms for you with our divorce plans.
Hello Divorce can help you calculate or negotiate support with our mediators and financial pros.
Does North Dakota use a set formula for spousal support?
No. There is no mandated formula; judges weigh need, ability to pay, marital lifestyle, and related factors.
How long does support last in North Dakota?
It depends on your agreement or order. Rehabilitative and durational terms are common; longer-term support may apply in select cases.
Can spousal support be modified later?
Often yes, if your order allows it and there is a material change in circumstances; parties may also agree to non-modifiable terms.