Hawaii · Alimony · Updated Oct 2026

Alimony in Hawaii

Alimony (spousal support) in Hawaii, from the state's own law: when a court can order it, amount and length, how it relates to dividing property and how to ask for it.

In short

In Hawaii, alimony is called spousal support. The court can order support that is just and equitable, looking at factors in the statute such as each spouse's financial resources, ability to meet their own needs, the standard of living, length of the marriage, age, health, and the time needed for training.

What Hawaii calls it
spousal support
Property division
Equitable distribution
Law
Haw. Rev. Stat. 580-47.

When Hawaii courts can order alimony

The court can order support that is just and equitable, looking at factors in the statute such as each spouse's financial resources, ability to meet their own needs, the standard of living, length of the marriage, age, health, and the time needed for training.

Amount, limits and length

There is no formula.

Law: Haw. Rev. Stat. 580-47.

Alimony and property in Hawaii

Alimony is decided separately from how property and debts are divided.

System
Equitable distribution
The rule
The family court divides and distributes the spouses' property and debts in a way that is just and equitable, considering each spouse's merits and abilities, the condition each will be left in, and the burdens of supporting the children.

How to ask for alimony in Hawaii

  1. Ask for it in your divorce papers

    Spousal support is decided in the divorce case: ask for it in your petition, or in your response if your spouse filed. Use the court's official divorce forms: Divorce forms (Hawaii courts)

  2. Pay the fee or ask for a waiver

    Can't afford it? Ask the family court to let you file without paying the fee (in forma pauperis).

  3. Agree, or let the judge decide

    If you and your spouse agree, put it in your written agreement; if not, the judge decides. Family courts can refer contested custody and property issues to mediation.

  4. Get it in the final decree

    Spousal support is ordered in the decree. Get a certified copy and keep it.

Questions about alimony in Hawaii

How does alimony work in Hawaii?

Called spousal support. The court can order support that is just and equitable, looking at factors in the statute such as each spouse's financial resources, ability to meet their own needs, the standard of living, length of the marriage, age, health, and the time needed for training. There is no formula.

How much alimony is paid in Hawaii, and for how long?

There is no formula.

Is Hawaii a community property state?

No. Hawaii uses equitable distribution. The family court divides and distributes the spouses' property and debts in a way that is just and equitable, considering each spouse's merits and abilities, the condition each will be left in, and the burdens of supporting the children.

More about divorce in Hawaii

Alimony in nearby states

Sources

Last checked: Oct 24, 2026.