Illinois
Illinois Spousal Maintenance Calculator
Illinois has one of the most precise maintenance formulas in the country. Under 750 ILCS 5/504, the amount and duration are both formula-driven — leaving little room for judicial variance when combined gross income is below $500,000.
Estimate accuracy for Illinois: Statutory guideline — courts must follow the formula and explain deviations in writing.
Legal authority: 750 ILCS 5/504
Spousal Maintenance questions in Illinois
What is the Illinois maintenance formula?
Amount = 33.33% of the payor's net income minus 25% of the payee's net income, subject to a cap so the payee's combined income does not exceed 40% of combined net income. "Net income" means after-tax income per an accountant's schedule — not gross. The formula applies when combined gross annual income is below $500,000.
How is maintenance duration calculated in Illinois?
Illinois uses a statutory duration table. A 10-year marriage generates 44% of the marriage length (about 5.3 years); a 15-year marriage generates 64% (about 9.6 years). Marriages of 20 years or more may result in permanent maintenance at the court's discretion.
What if combined income is over $500,000 in Illinois?
When the parties' combined gross annual income exceeds $500,000, the formula does not automatically apply. The court exercises discretion using the statutory factors listed in 750 ILCS 5/504(a).
Can an Illinois court deviate from the maintenance formula?
Yes, but the court must state its reasons for deviation in writing. This makes Illinois more transparent than most states — if a judge awards a different amount, the order explains why.
Does Illinois use gross or net income for maintenance?
Net income. Illinois law requires each party to produce a complete financial disclosure (Form 13.3.1) showing after-tax, after-deduction income. The calculator on this page approximates net as 75% of gross — always get an accountant's figure for accuracy.
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