Most South Dakota couples negotiate alimony and present agreed terms for approval. If litigated, the court decides amount, duration, and structure under equitable factors.
There is no official alimony calculator in South Dakota. Judges consider 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.
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 $6,900 and $2,600, 40% of $6,900 ($2,760) minus 50% of $2,600 ($1,300) suggests $1,460 per month. Adjust for insurance shifts, childcare, major debt, or seasonal income.
Temporary (pendente lite) support helps during the case. Rehabilitative/transitional support funds training or a return to work. Durational/longer-term by agreement may fit longer marriages. Lump-sum/buyout trades monthly payments for a fixed amount or property offset.
Alimony is transition help as two households take shape. It is not punishment and does not duplicate child support, which is calculated separately.
Use monthly step-downs, a lump-sum buyout, retirement/property offsets, or direct expense payments (COBRA, tuition, rent). Many couples secure obligations with life-insurance for the support term.
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Is there an alimony formula in South Dakota?
No. South Dakota has no mandated calculator; courts weigh equitable factors.
How long does alimony last in South Dakota?
It depends on your agreement or order. Rehabilitative and durational terms are common and tailored to the facts.
Can alimony be modified later?
Often yes, if permitted by your order and there is a material change in circumstances; parties can agree to non-modifiable terms.