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Arkansas Child Support Calculator (2026)

In Arkansas, child support is based on both parents' combined income and the number of children. The total is split between you based on how much each parent earns, and parenting time can change the amount. Use the free calculator below for an instant estimate.

How it's calculated
Both parents' income combined
Income used
Before-tax (gross)
Last updated
2020
Verified
2026-05-31

Source: AR Admin Order No. 10 (Revised, eff. July 1, 2020)

Calculate Your Arkansas Child Support

Free estimate — official Arkansas guidelines

Include wages, salary, bonuses, and other income

How Much Is Child Support in Arkansas?

If you make $60,000 a year in Arkansas, child support for 1 child is estimated at $609 per month ($7,308 per year). This assumes the other parent earns approximately $36,000/year. Actual amounts depend on both parents' incomes, custody time, and add-on expenses (child care, health insurance).

$1,000/week ($52,000/year): approximately $553/month for 1 child.

Arkansas Child Support Estimates by Income (2026)

Annual Income 1 Child 2 Children 3 Children
$40,000/yr $482/mo $707/mo $854/mo
$50,000/yr $539/mo $773/mo $926/mo
$60,000/yr $609/mo $872/mo $1,043/mo
$70,000/yr $650/mo $917/mo $1,096/mo
$80,000/yr $696/mo $970/mo $1,164/mo
$100,000/yr $814/mo $1,126/mo $1,351/mo
$120,000/yr $899/mo $1,234/mo $1,483/mo

Estimates assume the other parent earns 60% of your income. Actual amounts vary. Compare all states →

How Child Support Is Calculated in Arkansas

Factors That Affect Child Support in Arkansas

Both parents' gross monthly incomes
Number of children requiring support
Health insurance premiums for the children
Work-related child care costs
Custody arrangement and visitation schedule
Extraordinary medical or educational expenses
Other child support obligations from prior orders
Technical details and legal basis

Arkansas uses the Income Shares model (AR Admin Order No. 10 (Revised, eff. July 1, 2020)) to calculate child support. This model combines both parents' incomes to determine the total obligation, then divides it proportionally based on each parent's share.

Important Notes for Arkansas

  • Arkansas uses the Income Shares model, combining both parents' gross incomes to determine the total child support obligation.
  • Effective July 1, 2020, Arkansas switched from net income to gross income under the Revised Administrative Order No. 10.
  • The court may deviate from guidelines based on the needs of the child, the income and financial resources of both parents, and any extraordinary circumstances.
  • Arkansas reviews its child support chart periodically as directed by Administrative Order No. 10.

Example Calculation

Scenario: Parent A earns $5,000/month, Parent B earns $3,000/month, 2 children.

Step 1: Combined income: $8,000

Step 2: Parent A's share: $5,000 / $8,000 = 62.5%

Step 3: Look up basic obligation for $8,000 combined and 2 children.

Step 4: Multiply by Parent A's share (62.5%).

Adjustments for health insurance, child care, and parenting time may apply.

Key Facts: Child Support in Arkansas

  • Arkansas uses the Income Shares model, meaning child support is based on both parents' combined gross income (changed from net income effective July 1, 2020).
  • The basic child support obligation for 1 child ranges from $125/month at $1,050 combined income to $1,952/month at $30,000 combined monthly income (July 2020 chart).
  • Each parent pays their proportional share of the total obligation based on their percentage of the combined gross income.
  • Arkansas includes adjustments for health insurance costs, work-related child care, and extraordinary expenses.
  • Administrative Order No. 10 governs the child support guidelines and is periodically reviewed and updated by the Arkansas Supreme Court.

Arkansas Child Support FAQ

How is child support calculated in Arkansas?
Arkansas uses the Income Shares model under Administrative Order No. 10. Both parents' net incomes are combined, and the basic child support obligation is determined from the state chart. Each parent pays their proportional share based on their percentage of the combined net income. Adjustments may be made for child care, health insurance, and other factors.
What income counts for Arkansas child support?
Arkansas uses net income, which is gross income minus federal and state income taxes, Social Security taxes, Medicare taxes, and health insurance premiums. Gross income includes wages, salaries, commissions, bonuses, self-employment income, rental income, and other income sources.
Does shared custody affect child support in Arkansas?
Yes, Arkansas courts may adjust child support when parents share custody. When the non-custodial parent exercises significant parenting time, the court may consider the additional direct costs incurred during those periods and adjust the obligation accordingly.
How long does child support last in Arkansas?
In Arkansas, child support generally continues until the child turns 18. If the child is still attending high school at age 18, support may continue until the child graduates or turns 19, whichever occurs first. Support may also continue for a disabled child who is unable to support themselves.
Can Arkansas child support orders be modified?
Yes, either parent can petition the court to modify child support if there has been a material change in circumstances. This includes significant changes in income, changes in custody, changes in the child's needs, or if the existing order differs substantially from current guidelines.

About This Calculator

Uses the official AR Admin Order No. 10 (Revised, eff. July 1, 2020) (2020 guidelines). Last verified: 2026-05-31.

Disclaimer: Estimates only, not legal advice. Actual amounts are set by Arkansas courts. Full disclaimer.

Methodology: Income Shares model per AR Admin Order No. 10 (Revised, eff. July 1, 2020).

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