Spousal Support (Alimony) in Wisconsin
Most Wisconsin couples negotiate maintenance through mediation and submit agreed terms for approval. If litigated, the court determines amount, duration, and structure using statutory factors.
Is there a formula in Wisconsin?
There is no official maintenance calculator in Wisconsin. Judges weigh need and ability to pay, 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 $8,400 and $3,500, 40% of $8,400 ($3,360) minus 50% of $3,500 ($1,750) suggests $1,610 per month. Adjust for insurance changes, childcare, major debt, or seasonal income.
Types of spousal support
Wisconsin courts award temporary maintenance while the case is pending and post-judgment maintenance that may be limited-term or, in appropriate cases, indefinite. Parties can also structure lump-sum/buyout arrangements by agreement.
What support covers and what it doesn’t
Maintenance is transition help as two households take shape. It is not punishment and does not duplicate child support, which covers children’s needs.
Ways to structure payments
Consider monthly step-downs, a lump-sum buyout, retirement/property offsets, or targeted expense payments (COBRA, tuition, rent). Many couples secure obligations with term life insurance for the maintenance term.
How Hello Divorce can help
Hello Divorce can prepare all your Wisconsin 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 official maintenance calculator in Wisconsin?
No. Wisconsin has no mandated calculator; courts evaluate statutory factors.
How long does maintenance last in Wisconsin?
It depends on your agreement or order. Limited-term or indefinite maintenance may apply based on marriage length and budgets.
Can maintenance be modified?
Often yes—if your order permits and there is a substantial change in circumstances; parties may agree to non-modifiable terms.
