Spousal Support (Alimony) in Tennessee
Most Tennessee couples settle alimony in mediation and present the agreement for approval. If litigated, the court sets type, amount, and duration—Tennessee recognizes several distinct forms of alimony.
Is there a formula in Tennessee?
There is no official alimony calculator in Tennessee. Judges evaluate need and ability to pay, marital standard of living, length of marriage, ages/health, earning capacity, and paths to self-support. Marital fault may be considered among the factors.
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, 40% of $8,000 ($3,200) minus 50% of $3,200 ($1,600) suggests $1,600 per month. Adjust for insurance, childcare, major debt, or seasonal income.
Types of spousal support
Alimony in futuro (periodic) provides longer-term support and is often modifiable. Rehabilitative alimony supports education/training to regain earning power. Transitional alimony helps with short-term adjustment after divorce. Alimony in solido (lump-sum) fixes a total amount, often non-modifiable. Temporary pendente lite support may be ordered during the case.
What support covers and what it doesn’t
Alimony is transition support to establish two stable households. It is not punishment and does not replace child support, which is calculated separately.
Ways to structure payments
Consider monthly step-downs, a lump-sum buyout, property/retirement offsets, or targeted expense payments (COBRA, tuition, rent). Many spouses secure obligations with life-insurance for the support term.
How Hello Divorce can help
Hello Divorce can prepare all your Tennessee divorce forms for you with our divorce plans—and we can help you calculate or negotiate support with our mediators and financial pros.
FAQs
Is there an alimony formula in Tennessee?
No. Tennessee has no mandated calculator; courts apply statutory factors and may consider marital fault.
How long does alimony last in Tennessee?
It varies. Rehabilitative or transitional terms are common; in futuro may be longer. In solido fixes a total amount.
Can alimony be modified?
Often yes for in futuro or rehabilitative with a material change; in solido is usually non-modifiable unless agreed otherwise.
