Quick answer: Kentucky has no maintenance formula. Under KRS 403.200 the court may grant maintenance to either spouse only if it finds that the spouse seeking it (a) lacks sufficient property, including marital property apportioned to him or her, to provide for his or her reasonable needs, and (b) is unable to support himself or herself through appropriate employment or is the custodian of a child whose condition or circumstances make it appropriate not to seek employment outside the home. The order is then in such amounts and for such periods as the court deems just, considering all relevant factors, including the financial resources of the spouse seeking maintenance, the time needed for education or training, the standard of living during the marriage, the duration of the marriage, age and condition, and the other spouse’s ability to pay. Unless the parties agreed otherwise or the decree says so, maintenance ends on the death of either party or the remarriage of the recipient (KRS 403.250).
What this calculator shows
The calculator first applies the two-part threshold, then builds a monthly ceiling from the shortfall and the other spouse’s ability to pay. It does not predict an award. The threshold is in the two-part threshold, the factors in the factors the court weighs and changing or ending maintenance in modifying and ending maintenance.
Property, child support and maintenance
Marital property apportioned to the spouse seeking maintenance counts as one of that spouse’s financial resources, so the property division comes first. Maintenance paid is deducted from a parent’s income for child support. See the Kentucky property division calculator and the Kentucky child support calculator.
Maintenance across Kentucky
The statutes apply in every Kentucky circuit court, from Louisville, Lexington, Bowling Green, Owensboro, Covington or Frankfort. A maintenance decree can be modified only on changed circumstances so substantial and continuing as to make the terms unconscionable.
Frequently asked questions
How is alimony calculated in Kentucky?
There is no formula. The court may grant maintenance only if the requesting spouse lacks sufficient property and cannot self-support through appropriate employment or is the custodian of a child, and then sets amount and period as it deems just (KRS 403.200).
How long does maintenance last in Kentucky?
For such periods of time as the court deems just; the statute sets no maximum, and maintenance ends on death or the recipient's remarriage unless agreed otherwise.
Does remarriage end Kentucky maintenance?
Yes, unless the parties agreed otherwise in writing or the decree expressly provides otherwise.
Does fault matter for Kentucky maintenance?
The statute's factors do not include marital misconduct; they look at resources, training, the standard of living, the length of the marriage, age and condition and ability to pay.
Can Kentucky maintenance be modified?
Only on changed circumstances so substantial and continuing as to make the terms unconscionable.