Washington · Alimony · Updated Oct 2026

Alimony in Washington

What Washington law says about alimony: when a court can order it, amount and length, how it relates to dividing property and how to ask for it.

The short answer

In Washington, alimony is called spousal maintenance. The court can order it in amounts and for periods it finds just, without regard to misconduct, after considering factors such as the financial resources of the person asking, time needed for education or training, standard of living, length of marriage, age and health, and the payer's ability to pay.

What Washington calls it
spousal maintenance
Property division
Community property
Law
RCW 26.09.090.

Alimony rules in Washington

  • Called spousal maintenance.
  • The court can order it in amounts and for periods it finds just, without regard to misconduct, after considering factors such as the financial resources of the person asking, time needed for education or training, standard of living, length of marriage, age and health, and the payer's ability to pay.
  • No statewide formula.

Law: RCW 26.09.090.

Alimony and property in Washington

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

System
Community property
The rule
Washington is a community property state, but the court divides all property and debts (community and separate) in a way that is 'just and equitable,' not necessarily 50/50, without regard to misconduct.

How to ask for alimony in Washington

  1. Ask for it in your divorce papers

    You ask for alimony in the divorce case itself, in your petition or in your response to your spouse's petition. Use the court's official divorce forms: Divorce forms (Washington courts)

  2. Pay the fee or ask for a waiver

    Can't afford it? Ask for a fee waiver under General Rule 34 (GR 34 Fee Waiver forms on the WA Courts forms page): https://www.courts.wa.gov/forms/.

  3. Agree, or let the judge decide

    If you and your spouse agree, put it in your written agreement; if not, the judge decides. Some courts offer or require mediation or settlement conferences, especially for parenting plans; check your county's local rules.

  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 Washington

How does alimony work in Washington?

Called spousal maintenance. The court can order it in amounts and for periods it finds just, without regard to misconduct, after considering factors such as the financial resources of the person asking, time needed for education or training, standard of living, length of marriage, age and health, and the payer's ability to pay. No statewide formula.

Is Washington a community property state?

Yes. Washington is a community property state, but the court divides all property and debts (community and separate) in a way that is 'just and equitable,' not necessarily 50/50, without regard to misconduct.

More about divorce in Washington

Alimony in nearby states

Sources

Last checked: Oct 24, 2026.