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The Complete Guide to Alimony Calculators: What Every Spouse Should Know

The Complete Guide to Alimony Calculators: What Every Spouse Should Know

 Divorce is rarely a simple process, and one of the most financially significant aspects of any separation is alimony the financial support one spouse may be required to pay the other after a marriage ends. Whether someone is trying to understand what they might owe or what they could receive, an alimony calculator can offer a useful starting point. This guide walks through everything individuals need to know about spousal support, how it is calculated, how long it lasts, and what tools are available to estimate payments — state by state.

What Is Alimony and What Qualifies a Spouse for It?

Alimony — also called spousal support or spousal maintenance — is a court-ordered financial payment from one former spouse to another. Its purpose is to help the lower-earning or financially dependent spouse maintain a reasonable standard of living following divorce. Courts across the country have wide discretion in setting alimony, and the rules differ significantly depending on the state.

So what qualifies a spouse for alimony? While every state has its own list of factors, most courts examine:

What disqualifies a spouse for alimony varies by state, but common disqualifiers include the receiving spouse cohabiting with a new partner, remarrying, having a sufficient income to be self-supporting, or — in some states — being found at fault for the breakdown of the marriage.

How to Calculate Alimony: The Basics

Understanding how to calculate alimony is not always straightforward, because most states do not rely on a single rigid formula. Instead, courts weigh a combination of statutory factors against the specific facts of each marriage. That said, certain general principles apply almost everywhere.

A basic alimony estimate often looks at:

  1. Income disparity — The difference between both spouses' gross or net monthly incomes is often the starting point.
  2. Percentage of income — Some states apply a formula involving a fixed percentage of the paying spouse's income.
  3. Duration — The length of the marriage often determines how long alimony is paid.
  4. Need and ability to pay — Courts assess whether the receiving spouse genuinely needs support and whether the paying spouse can reasonably afford it.

For those wondering how much spousal support they should ask for, a rough benchmark often used in practice is 30–40% of the income gap between spouses, though this varies widely by state and judge.

How Long Does Alimony Last?

One of the most commonly asked questions in any divorce is: how long does alimony last? The answer depends on the type of alimony awarded and the state where the divorce is filed.

Generally speaking:

Some states, like California, have what is informally known as the divorce California 10-year rule — meaning that for marriages lasting 10 or more years, the court retains jurisdiction over spousal support indefinitely, and it may extend for the life of the supported spouse unless they remarry or circumstances change significantly.

For marriages that lasted two decades or more, the question of alimony after 30 years of marriage in California is a serious one, as courts often view such unions as "long-term marriages" warranting extended or even permanent support.

Types of Alimony

Not all alimony is the same. Courts can award different forms depending on the circumstances:

The distinction between spousal maintenance vs alimony is mainly a matter of terminology — different states use different words for the same concept. In states like Arizona, Wisconsin, and Illinois, "maintenance" is the preferred legal term.

The Role of Alimony Calculators

A modern alimony calculator is a digital tool that takes key inputs — such as both spouses' incomes, the length of the marriage, and applicable state laws — and produces an estimated alimony figure. These tools are invaluable for early planning, settlement negotiations, and understanding what a court might order.

It is important to note that online calculators are estimates, not legal guarantees. Courts have broad discretion, and actual awards can differ. Nonetheless, tools like the Dissomaster calculator (used extensively in California), the xspouse calculator California, the free dissomaster calculator spousal support California, and AAML-based tools have become standard references in family law proceedings.

The nys spousal support calculator is widely used in New York, and the pa spousal support website offers official state guidance for Pennsylvania residents. A social security spousal support calculator can also be helpful for older couples approaching retirement.

For those who want to explore divorce maintenance calculator tools, many are available online for free, including a free alimony calculator on various legal resource sites.

State-by-State Alimony Calculator Guide

California

California is one of the most complex states for spousal support. The California alimony calculator typically relies on a formula used by judges: 40% of the higher earner's net monthly income, minus 50% of the lower earner's net monthly income. This formula underlies the spousal support California calculator used by family law professionals.

The California spousal support calculator — and the professional-grade Dissomaster calculator used by attorneys — are based on this same framework. The Dissomaster spousal support calculator California is a software product widely used in courts, and a free dissomaster calculator version is also available for preliminary estimates.

For those asking how to calculate alimony in California, the formula is a starting point, but courts also consider standard of living, the supported spouse's earning capacity, and the "California 10-year rule." Alimony in California after 10 years is treated particularly seriously, and courts may award long-term or indefinite support. Similarly, alimony in California after 20 years often results in open-ended orders.

How long does spousal support last in California? For short marriages (under 10 years), the guideline is roughly half the length of the marriage. When does spousal support end in California depends on whether the supported spouse becomes self-supporting, remarries, or both parties agree to terminate.

The question of who qualifies for alimony in California and what qualifies a spouse for alimony in California hinges on economic need and the court's assessment of the supported spouse's ability to earn a living. Permanent spousal support California is most often seen after very long marriages.

Tax questions also arise frequently: is alimony taxable in California? Under current federal law (post-2018), alimony payments are neither deductible for the payer nor taxable income for the recipient. California follows federal rules in this regard.

The alimony calculator California 2024 and California alimony calculator 2025 reflect updated income thresholds and support guidelines. The California spousal support calculator Santa Clara and other county-specific tools may apply local adjustments. The spousal support calculator California 2025 is relevant for divorces being finalized in the coming year.

How to avoid paying alimony in California is a topic many paying spouses explore. Options can include demonstrating the receiving spouse's ability to work, proving a shortened marriage, or negotiating a lump-sum settlement. However, courts are not easily persuaded to waive alimony entirely in long marriages.

How to file for spousal support in California begins with filing a request for order (RFO) with the family court, along with financial disclosure forms. Emergency spousal support California (called a temporary order) can be requested early in proceedings.

For long marriages, alimony in California after 5 years may be modest, but by 10 or 20 years, the picture changes substantially. The divorce after 20 years in California almost always triggers serious spousal support discussions.

The Alimony Calculator and alimony in california after 10 years calculator are popular search tools that help individuals get preliminary estimates before consulting an attorney. The free xspouse calculator is another option for California-based calculations.

New Jersey

New Jersey's alimony system underwent significant reform in 2014, eliminating permanent alimony for most cases and replacing it with "open durational alimony" for long marriages. The alimony calculator NJ helps New Jersey residents estimate their potential support obligations.

Spousal support in NJ is governed by NJSA 2A:34-23, which lays out 13 statutory factors courts must consider. The 13 factors for alimony in NJ include the need and ability to pay, the length of the marriage, the standard of living, and each party's earning capacity, among others. The nj alimony factors embedded in this statute are thorough and often hotly contested in court. Types of alimony in NJ include limited duration, rehabilitative, reimbursement, and open durational alimony.

The NJ alimony calculator 2023, NJ alimony calculator 2025, and alimony in NJ 2024 resources reflect the evolving landscape of New Jersey support law. How does alimony work in NJ involves these statutory factors being weighed by a judge with considerable discretion.

How long does alimony last in NJ depends largely on the marriage length. For marriages under 20 years, open durational alimony typically does not exceed the length of the marriage. For marriages over 20 years, extended or open durational support may be awarded.

Permanent alimony in NJ is still possible but rarely granted for marriages under 20 years. Can permanent alimony be terminated in NJ? Yes — the payer reaching full Social Security retirement age is now a presumptive basis for termination under the 2014 reforms.

Who pays alimony in NJ and what is the new law for alimony in New Jersey are both addressed by the 2014 legislation, which also includes provisions related to cohabitation and imputation of income. The alimony statute NJ is codified at NJSA 2A:34-23 B.

For those wondering how to avoid paying alimony in NJ, strategies include proving the receiving spouse is cohabiting, requesting modification based on changed financial circumstances, or reaching a negotiated settlement.

The nj alimony calculator also incorporates the kaufman alimony calculator framework — the Kaufman guidelines are an informal reference tool used in some New Jersey counties. The kaufman alimony guidelines are not law but provide a benchmark that some practitioners use.

Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania has a nuanced system involving three types of support: spousal support (pre-divorce), alimony pendente lite (during divorce proceedings), and alimony (post-divorce). The alimony calculator PA, Pennsylvania alimony calculator, and alimony in PA calculator all help residents estimate their obligations.

What are the 17 factors for alimony in Pennsylvania? Pennsylvania courts consider factors such as the relative earnings of both parties, the duration of the marriage, the contribution of each party, the standard of living, and whether either party has training or employable skills, among others.

How to calculate alimony in PA typically begins with the monthly income gap. The basic spousal support formula in Pennsylvania uses roughly 40% of the income difference (after taxes) as a baseline. The new PA alimony formula and pa spousal support calculator 2023 and pa spousal support calculator 2025 reflect updates to the guidelines.

Is there alimony in PA? Yes, and it is available both during and after divorce. What is alimony in PA at its core is financial support for a dependent spouse. What disqualifies you from alimony in PA includes remarriage, cohabitation with a new partner, or demonstrated ability to be self-supporting.

How to file for spousal support in PA involves filing a complaint with the domestic relations office in the county of residence. The pa spousal support website provides official forms and guidance. Pa spousal support guidelines are published by the state and regularly updated.

Alimony in PA how long it lasts depends on the court's discretion after weighing the statutory factors. How long is alimony in PA is not formulaic — judges exercise broad discretion. Lifetime alimony in PA is rare but possible for very long marriages with significant economic disparity.

The alimony pendente lite Pennsylvania process allows a dependent spouse to receive temporary support immediately during the divorce case. Does adultery affect spousal support in PA? Yes — in Pennsylvania, fault can be considered in alimony determinations.

How to calculate spousal support in PA mirrors the spousal support formula, which uses percentages of net income. The spousal support calculator Michigan follows a similar logic but with state-specific adjustments.

New York

New York's alimony calculator NY, NY alimony calculator, and nys spousal support calculator are all based on a statutory formula enacted in 2016. The formula produces a "temporary maintenance" figure for use during proceedings, and courts use a similar framework for post-divorce maintenance.

How does alimony work in NY involves the court applying the formula and then adjusting based on factors like the marriage length and each party's circumstances. The nys divorce calculator and spousal maintenance calculator nys PDF are formal tools used within New York courts.

What qualifies a spouse for alimony in NY mirrors the general national framework, though New York courts pay particular attention to the "lifestyle" standard and lost economic opportunity. How to file for spousal support in NY involves submitting the appropriate forms through the Supreme Court (which handles divorces in New York State).

How long is alimony paid in NY depends on the marriage duration and the court's assessment of the lower-earning spouse's ability to become self-supporting. How to avoid alimony in NY is often about demonstrating the receiving spouse's financial independence or earning capacity.

Virginia

Virginia courts weigh 19 factors when determining spousal support. The Virginia alimony calculator and Virginia spousal support calculator help residents understand what they might expect. How to calculate alimony in Virginia is guided by the Virginia code spousal support statutes.

What qualifies a spouse for alimony in Virginia includes the standard factors — marriage length, economic need, standard of living — but Virginia is one of the few states where adultery can bar a spouse from receiving alimony entirely.

Permanent spousal support Virginia is possible in long marriages, and pendente lite spousal support Virginia offers temporary relief during proceedings. Separate maintenance Virginia is an option for couples who are separated but not yet divorced, under Virginia Code § 20-107.1.

How long does spousal support last in Virginia is highly discretionary. How to file for spousal support in Virginia begins with filing a petition in the circuit court. How to avoid paying alimony in Virginia can involve showing the receiving spouse committed adultery or has the means to support themselves.

The Virginia spousal support guidelines worksheet is used by practitioners to estimate awards, and alimony in Virginia for stay-at-home moms is an area where courts are particularly sensitive to economic sacrifice made during the marriage.

Florida

Florida recently overhauled its alimony laws with a landmark reform eliminating permanent alimony and restricting the types of support available. The spousal support calculator Florida helps couples estimate their post-reform obligations.

Types of alimony in Florida include bridge-the-gap, rehabilitative, durational, and temporary alimony. The Florida alimony 2024 landscape changed significantly after the 2023 legislation took effect.

What qualifies a spouse for alimony in Florida is governed by the new standards, which place durational limits on support periods relative to the length of the marriage. How to avoid alimony in Florida is often achieved by demonstrating the receiving spouse's earning capacity or negotiating a structured settlement.

Texas

Texas has strict limits on spousal support — it calls the arrangement "spousal maintenance," and courts are relatively reluctant to award it. The Texas alimony calculator and spousal support in Texas calculator reflect these restrictions.

How hard is it to get spousal support in Texas? It is notably challenging. Texas requires that the supported spouse either be unable to provide for their "minimum reasonable needs," have been married for at least 10 years with inability to earn sufficient income, or be a victim of family violence, among other limited circumstances.

What qualifies you for spousal support in Texas is one of the more restrictive standards in the country. How long does spousal support last in Texas is capped — generally at a maximum of 5 years for marriages of 10–20 years, 7 years for marriages of 20–30 years, and 10 years for marriages over 30 years. How long do you pay alimony in Texas is governed by these statutory caps, including the alimony Texas 10 years rule for the lower tier.

How to avoid paying alimony in Texas is relatively straightforward given the high bar for qualification. The Texas spousal support statute and Texas spousal maintenance form provide the legal framework. Temporary spousal support Texas is also available during proceedings but must meet the same strict criteria.

Ohio

The Ohio alimony calculator gives Ohio residents an estimate based on their specific circumstances. Ohio uses the term "spousal support" and grants judges wide latitude. There is no fixed formula; the court weighs factors including the length of the marriage, each party's income, and each party's retirement benefits.

North Carolina

The NC alimony calculator and spousal support calculator North Carolina reflect North Carolina's unique rules. North Carolina is one of a handful of states where adultery is a significant factor — a dependent spouse who committed adultery can be barred from receiving alimony, while an at-fault supporting spouse can be ordered to pay.

Length of alimony in NC is determined by the court based on the circumstances of the marriage. Permanent alimony in NC is possible in long marriages with significant financial disparity. How to avoid paying alimony in North Carolina often involves challenging the claimed income figures or demonstrating the dependent spouse's earning ability.

South Carolina

The SC alimony calculator, alimony calculator SC, and South Carolina alimony calculator are used to estimate support in a state that still recognizes several forms of alimony, including reimbursement, rehabilitative, and periodic alimony.

Lifetime alimony South Carolina can be awarded in long marriages where the dependent spouse cannot reasonably be expected to become self-supporting. Alimony in SC adultery is a critical factor adultery typically bars a dependent spouse from receiving alimony. What qualifies you for alimony in SC includes need, length of the marriage, and standard of living. How to avoid paying alimony in South Carolina can be achieved through evidence of the dependent spouse's marital misconduct.

Michigan

The Michigan alimony calculator, alimony calculator Michigan, and spousal support calculator Michigan are popular tools for the Great Lakes State. Michigan courts consider a long list of factors including the length of the marriage, each party's ability to work, the standard of living, and fault.

Oregon

Oregon's alimony calculator Oregon, spousal support calculator Oregon, and Oregon spousal support calculator provide estimates for a state that takes a highly individualized approach. The Oregon spousal support statute and Oregon spousal support examples describe how courts weigh factors like marriage length, contributions, and economic need.

Oregon alimony reform 2016 changed how courts approach support, placing greater emphasis on economic self-sufficiency. Indefinite spousal support Oregon may be awarded in long marriages. Modifying spousal support in Oregon is possible upon showing a substantial change in circumstances, and the modification of parenting plan Oregon process can sometimes intersect with support modifications.

How to avoid alimony in Oregon can be achieved by demonstrating the dependent spouse's ability to earn a sufficient income.

Arizona

Arizona uses the term "spousal maintenance," and the spousal support calculator Arizona, Arizona spousal maintenance calculator, and Maricopa county spousal maintenance calculator are widely used. The Arizona spousal maintenance guidelines — codified in state statute — include the Arizona spousal maintenance guidelines 2023 and Arizona spousal maintenance guidelines 2025 updates.

The rule of 65 spousal support Arizona is a specific standard: if the length of the marriage plus the age of the dependent spouse equals 65 or more, the court may consider open-ended maintenance. The spousal maintenance worksheet Arizona is a formal document used to calculate awards. The Arizona spousal support clearinghouse is a payment processing system used for maintenance payments in the state.

Wisconsin

The Wisconsin alimony calculator and spousal support calculator Wisconsin are rooted in Wisconsin's maintenance statute. Wisconsin maintenance statute and Wisconsin divorce alimony law gives judges broad discretion in determining both the amount and duration of support.

Alimony in Wisconsin how many years it lasts depends on the marriage length and each party's circumstances. How to avoid paying alimony in Wisconsin can involve demonstrating the dependent spouse's earning potential. State of Wisconsin maintenance payments can be made directly or through a state payment processing center.

Wisconsin alimony laws allow for modification upon a showing of changed circumstances. Wisconsin maintenance statute does not provide a fixed formula, giving courts latitude to craft fair orders.

Tennessee

The Tennessee alimony calculator helps residents in the Volunteer State estimate support amounts. What is the maximum alimony in TN is not set by statute — courts have wide discretion. Tennessee recognizes several alimony types, including in futuro (long-term), in solido (lump sum), rehabilitative, and transitional alimony.

How to avoid paying alimony in Tennessee often involves demonstrating the recipient's ability to be self-supporting or reaching a negotiated settlement. Tennessee courts consider fault in alimony determinations.

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Maryland

Maryland's Maryland alimony calculator is based on a balancing of need, ability to pay, and the statutory factors laid out in the Maryland Code. Permanent alimony in Maryland is available but granted less frequently than in past decades.

Who qualifies for alimony in Maryland depends primarily on financial need and the circumstances of the marriage. How long is alimony paid in Maryland and how long does alimony last in Maryland are determined by the court on a case-by-case basis. Adultery and alimony in Maryland is a relevant factor — fault can affect both eligibility and amount. How to avoid paying alimony in Maryland can involve demonstrating the dependent spouse's ability to earn.

The kaufman alimony calculator is sometimes referenced by Maryland practitioners, and rehabilitative alimony Maryland is among the most common forms awarded.

Alabama

The Alabama alimony calculator and new Alabama alimony laws reflect a state where alimony can be awarded but is relatively conservative in scope. How long does alimony last in Alabama is determined by the court. How to avoid paying alimony in Alabama generally involves demonstrating the dependent spouse's earning capacity or showing marital fault.

Connecticut

Connecticut's alimony calculator CT, CT alimony calculator, and Connecticut alimony calculator help residents in the Constitution State estimate support. Connecticut alimony laws give courts broad discretion with no fixed formula.

Is CT a community property state? No — Connecticut is an equitable distribution state, meaning assets are divided fairly but not necessarily equally. Lifetime alimony in CT and CT alimony examples show how varied Connecticut awards can be. Is alimony taxable in CT follows federal rules: post-2018, alimony is not deductible or taxable.

How to avoid alimony in CT often involves showing the receiving spouse's financial independence. Modification of alimony in CT is possible with a showing of substantial change. A motion for modification CT is the standard procedural mechanism. How to get a quick divorce in CT and how to get a divorce in CT for free are also common concerns — how much does an uncontested divorce cost in CT depends on legal fees and court costs. Typical divorce settlement Connecticut cases vary widely.

CT divorce laws adultery allow courts to consider marital fault in determining property division and alimony. Divorce in CT who gets the house depends on the equitable distribution analysis.

New Hampshire

The NH alimony calculator provides estimates for New Hampshire residents under a system that gives courts significant flexibility in setting support based on the marriage's unique circumstances.

Nevada

Nevada's spousal support calculator Nevada and maximum alimony in Nevada provisions reflect a state where alimony is relatively uncommon — Nevada is a community property state and generally seeks a clean financial break between divorcing spouses. How to avoid alimony in Nevada is often straightforward given the state's overall philosophy.

Iowa

The alimony calculator Iowa is a useful tool for Iowa residents, where courts consider marriage length, economic circumstances, and the standard of living. Iowa does not have a fixed formula, giving judges wide latitude.

Idaho

The Idaho alimony calculator helps residents estimate support in a state where alimony — called "maintenance" — is less commonly awarded and typically rehabilitative in nature.

Oklahoma

The Oklahoma alimony calculator serves residents in a state where alimony is discretionary and courts weigh factors including need, ability to pay, and the length of the marriage.

Missouri

The alimony calculator Missouri and how to avoid paying alimony in Missouri questions arise often in a state that uses "maintenance" terminology and applies standard discretionary factors.

Illinois

How to calculate alimony in Illinois is guided by the Illinois maintenance statute, which provides a formula: 33.33% of the payer's net income minus 25% of the receiver's net income, subject to a cap. The Illinois maintenance statute and alimony in Illinois how many years rules specify that the duration is calculated as a percentage of the marriage length.

Who qualifies for alimony in Illinois and how to avoid paying alimony in Illinois are governed by the same statutory framework. The Illinois maintenance calculator 2025 reflects updated guidelines for the current year.

Maryland, Montana, Oregon, and Beyond

The Montana alimony calculator is relevant for the few spousal support cases that arise in that state, where courts exercise broad discretion. The DC alimony calculator applies District of Columbia law, which closely mirrors federal-district standards with a focus on need and ability to pay.

Alimony and Taxes: What the Payer and Recipient Need to Know

The tax landscape for alimony changed dramatically after 2018 due to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. Here is what both parties need to understand:

Is alimony taxable after 2019? For divorce agreements finalized after December 31, 2018, alimony payments are no longer deductible by the payer, and they are no longer treated as taxable income for the recipient. This reversed decades of tax law.

Is alimony taxable federal? Under current law, no — for post-2018 agreements, alimony is not included in federal gross income. Examples of taxable alimony would only apply to agreements finalized before 2019 that have not been modified to opt into the new rules.

How to avoid paying taxes on alimony (for pre-2019 agreements) involves careful structuring of payments to avoid reclassification as property settlements or child support, which have always been non-deductible and non-taxable.

Why is alimony no longer deductible? The TCJA eliminated the deduction as part of a broader set of tax code changes, shifting the tax burden to the paying spouse.

Spousal Support Modifications and Changes Over Time

Does alimony change if income changes? In most states, yes — a significant, involuntary change in either party's income can justify a modification request. Courts typically require a "substantial and continuing" change to modify an existing order.

How to get out of permanent alimony can be challenging but is not impossible. Options include demonstrating the recipient's cohabitation, remarriage, or significantly improved financial circumstances. Does permanent alimony end at retirement? In many states, reaching full retirement age is a recognized basis for modification or termination.

My wife quit her job before divorce and wife quit job to get alimony and husband quit job to avoid alimony are situations courts address through "imputation of income" — attributing a realistic earning capacity to a spouse who is voluntarily underemployed. Similarly, can I get alimony if my husband is unemployed depends on whether his unemployment is voluntary or involuntary.

Maintenance payments after divorce can be made via check, direct deposit alimony payments, or through a state payment processing center, depending on the order.

Conclusion

Navigating spousal support can feel overwhelming, especially in the middle of an emotionally charged divorce. But understanding how alimony works — what qualifies a spouse for it, how it is calculated, how long it lasts, and how state laws differ — gives both parties a significant advantage when approaching negotiations or court proceedings.

An alimony calculator is one of the most practical tools available to divorcing spouses today. Whether someone is using the California spousal support calculator, the NJ alimony calculator, the Virginia spousal support calculator, or a general-purpose free alimony calculator, these tools offer a valuable first look at what the numbers might actually mean in practice. They turn abstract legal concepts into concrete estimates that help both parties plan their financial futures with greater clarity.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How accurate is an alimony calculator?

Online alimony calculators provide a useful estimate but should not be treated as a guarantee. Courts have wide discretion, and actual awards can differ significantly. A calculator is best used as a starting point for understanding the range of possible outcomes.

What is the difference between alimony and spousal support?

They refer to the same concept — financial support paid by one spouse to another following divorce. Different states use different terminology. "Maintenance" is used in states like Arizona, Wisconsin, and Illinois; "spousal support" is common in California and Florida; "alimony" is the general term used in states like New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

Can alimony be modified after it is set?

Yes, in most states. A substantial and involuntary change in the financial circumstances of either party — such as job loss, a raise, or a change in the recipient's living situation — can be grounds for modification.

Does a spouse always receive alimony in a divorce?

No. Alimony is not automatic. Courts award it based on financial need, the length of the marriage, and each party's circumstances. Short marriages and cases where both spouses have similar incomes often result in no alimony being awarded.

How does remarriage affect alimony?

In almost every state, the recipient spouse's remarriage automatically terminates alimony. Cohabitation with a new partner can also trigger a modification or termination, depending on state law.

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