Divorce in Oregon

Spousal Support (Alimony) in Oregon

Written by Hello Divorce Team | Sep 11, 2025 11:26:31 PM

Most Oregon couples negotiate spousal support in mediation and submit terms for approval. If litigated, the judge decides type, amount, duration, and structure using Oregon’s support categories.

Is there a formula in Oregon?

There is no official spousal support calculator in Oregon. Courts evaluate need and ability to pay, the marital standard of living, length of marriage, 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 8,000 and 3,200, then 40% of 8,000 (3,200) minus 50% of 3,200 (1,600) suggests 1,600 per month. Adjust for insurance shifts, childcare, major debt, or seasonal income.

Types of spousal support

Transitional support helps a spouse gain training or reenter the workforce. Compensatory support may address significant contributions to the other spouse’s career/education. Spousal maintenance provides ongoing support to maintain a reasonable standard of living post-marriage. Parties may also craft lump-sum/buyout arrangements.

What support covers and what it doesn’t

Support is transition help to stabilize two households. It is not a punishment and does not duplicate child support, which is calculated separately.

Ways to structure payments

Consider monthly payments with step-downs, a lump-sum buyout, property or retirement offsets, or targeted expense payments like COBRA, tuition, or rent. Many couples secure obligations with life-insurance for the support term.

How Hello Divorce can help

Hello Divorce can prepare all your Oregon 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 Oregon?
No. Oregon has no mandated calculator; judges apply support categories and equitable factors.

How long does spousal support last in Oregon?
It depends on your agreement or order. Transitional, compensatory, and maintenance support can be tailored in amount and duration.

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