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Spousal Maintenance
What is Spousal Maintenance?
In Arizona, "alimony" is referred to as spousal maintenance. Spousal maintenance is financial support that one spouse may be required to pay to the other after a divorce or legal separation. Spousal maintenance can be court-ordered or agreed upon.
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A.R.S. § 25-319 governs spousal maintenance. Before calculating spousal maintenance, the threshold question is whether or not a spouse is "entitled" to spousal maintenance. A.R.S. § 25-319(A) sets out the considerations for determining whether or not a party is entitled to maintenance. If a party is able to be self sufficient, they will not be entitled to spousal maintenance, as spousal maintenance is only awarded to enable the receiving spouse to become self-sufficient.
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Once entitlement is established, the Arizona Spousal Maintenance Guidelines, calculate an amount and duration range based on the age of the parties, the length of marriage, and each spouse's respective annual income.
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Please Note: The court may award spousal maintenance pursuant to the guidelines only for a period of time and in an amount necessary to enable the receiving spouse to become self-sufficient. Spousal maintenance therefore does not provide the receiving spouse with indefinite financial support.
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During the pendency of a divorce or separation, temporary spousal maintenance can be awarded or agreed upon, and counts towards the overall duration of spousal maintenance within the duration range prescribed by the guidelines.
Calculating Spousal Maintenance
Spousal Maintenance is calculated using the Arizona Spousal Maintenance Guidelines. The Guidelines were most recently updated, effective September 1, 2025.
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Here is a link to the Guidelines themselves: Arizona Spousal Maintenance Guidelines (effective 9/1/2025)
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The calculation however is done on on the "Spousal Maintenance Calculator," which produces a "Spousal Maintenance Worksheet." The Superior Court of Maricopa County provides two free versions for parties and attorneys to use when calculating spousal maintenance.
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Here is a link to the free/public spousal maintenance worksheets: Spousal Maintenance Calculator
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It can be easiest to download the "Excel Version," then just input the information, and review the amount and duration ranges calculated by the guidelines. The ultimate spousal mainteance award (if a party is entitled to spousal maintenance) must fall within the amount and duration ranges. There are rare circumstances where a deviation from the amount may be allowed, or where the Rule of 65 is applicable. Consult an attorney to discuss if these apply to your case.
Is spousal maintenance an issue in your case?
If you’re unsure whether you may be entitled to spousal maintenance, required to pay it, or need to modify an existing order, our experienced family law attorneys can guide you through your options.
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Contact us below or by phone at 602-277-6900 to schedule a consultation and get clear, personalized advice for your situation