How Is Spousal Support Calculated in Alberta? (2025 Guide by Kolinsky Law)

July 28, 2025

If you’re going through a divorce or separation in Edmonton, understanding spousal support (alimony) is crucial. Alberta’s laws have seen updates in 2025, making it essential to stay informed. At Kolinsky Law, our top-rated Spousal Support Lawyers in Edmonton help clients secure fair outcomes.

This 2025 guide covers the latest changes, how support is calculated, and what you can expect.

What Is Spousal Support in Alberta?

Spousal support is a court-ordered or negotiated payment from one ex-spouse to another after separation. Its purpose is to:
✔ Help the lower-earning spouse maintain financial stability
✔ Compensate for career sacrifices made during the marriage
✔ Support a transition to independence

Unlike child support, which follows strict federal tables, spousal support is flexible and depends on multiple factors.

2025 Updates to Spousal Support in Alberta

Recent changes in Alberta’s family law may impact your case:
🔹 Increased Focus on Self-Sufficiency — Courts now encourage recipients to retrain or seek employment faster.
🔹 Stricter Income Verification — Hidden income (e.g., side gigs, investments) is more closely scrutinised.
🔹 Adjustments for Inflation — Support amounts may be adjusted due to rising living costs.

Need help navigating these updates? Our Edmonton Spousal Support Lawyers can guide you.

How Is Spousal Support Calculated in Alberta?

The Spousal Support Advisory Guidelines (SSAG) help determine fair payments, though courts have discretion. Key factors include:

1. Income of Both Spouses

Gross income (salary, bonuses, rental income, etc.) is assessed.
If a spouse is underemployed, courts may impute income (assign a higher earning potential).

2. Length of the Relationship

Short-term marriages (<5 years) → Temporary support (1–5 years).
Long-term marriages (10+ years) → Longer or indefinite support.

3. Roles During Marriage

Did one spouse pause their career for childcare or support the other’s success?
Courts may award higher support if financial dependency exists.

4. Needs & Ability to Pay

The recipient’s living expenses (housing, childcare, retraining) are considered.
The payer’s financial capacity is evaluated to avoid undue hardship.

5. Child Support Obligations

If child support is also paid, spousal support may be reduced.

Spousal Support Calculator (Edmonton & Alberta 2025)

While no official calculator exists, the SSAG formula provides estimates:

Without Child Support

Amount: 1.5% to 2% of the income difference × years of marriage
Duration: 0.5 to 1 year of support per year of marriage

With Child Support

Adjustments are made to balance both obligations.

Example Calculation (2025 Updates Applied)

Spouse A’s income: $120,000
Spouse B’s income: $50,000
Marriage length: 12 years

Calculation:

Income difference = $120,000 — $50,000 = $70,000
Monthly support = 1.5% to 2% of $70,000 = $1,050 to $1,400/month
Duration = 6 to 12 years (since marriage lasted 12 years)

💡 Need a precise estimate? Our Spousal Support Lawyer Edmonton can analyse your case.

Can Spousal Support Be Changed or Stopped?

Yes, if there’s a significant change, such as:

Recipient remarries or cohabits with a new partner
Payer loses their job or faces financial hardship
The recipient becomes self-sufficient

⚠️ Important 2025 Change: Courts now favour time-limited support unless long-term dependency is proven.

Why Hire a Spousal Support Lawyer in Edmonton?

A skilled lawyer ensures:
✅ Accurate income assessment (preventing unfair payments)
✅ Strong negotiation or litigation strategy
✅ Compliance with 2025 legal updates

At Kolinsky Law, we’ve helped hundreds of clients secure fair spousal support agreements.

🔗 Learn More: Spousal Support Alberta Guide

Need Help with Spousal Support in Edmonton?

Don’t leave your financial future to chance. Contact Kolinsky Law today for expert legal advice.

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