Guideline Estimates · All 50 States + DC

Arkansas Child Support Calculator 2026

Every state calculates differently. Enter two incomes and see the real guideline number — with parenting-time credit, add-ons, and the math shown step by step.

Your State

Percentage of Income Percentage model. 15% for 1 child.

Parents

$
$

Children & Parenting Time

20%

Over 20% unlocks a parenting-time credit in most states — the slider moves the number fast.

Add-On Expenses monthly, split by income share

$
$
$

Estimated child support

$1,481 / month

$17,775 per year · Percentage of Income in Arkansas

The math, step by step

Combined monthly income$9,500
Guideline obligation (payer's share)$1,260
Parenting-time credit−$63
Childcare share$189
Health insurance share$95
Extraordinary share$0
Monthly payment$1,481

Income shares

Parent 163.2%
Parent 236.8%

What if we share custody more?

Same incomes, same kids — only parenting time changes.

20% time

$1,481

standard visitation

40% time

$1,229

extended parenting

50% time

$1,040

equal custody

Educational estimate only — not legal advice. Courts deviate for healthcare, education, and each family's circumstances. Modification usually needs a 20% income change in your state. Consult a licensed family law attorney.

How Child Support Works in Arkansas

Percentage of Income state. The non-custodial parent pays a fixed percentage of their own income — set by number of children. Percentage model. 15% for 1 child.

Arkansas publishes a fixed schedule: 15% of the non-custodial parent's net income for one child, 21% for two, 25% for three, 28% for four, and 30% for five or more.

Modifying an order: Arkansas generally requires a 20% change in income before the court will reopen the number.

Support usually ends when the child turns 18 or graduates high school — check your county's practice, and remember that courts can extend support for a child with disabilities.

The Three Models, Side by Side

Which one applies to you depends entirely on your state.

Income Shares

38 states

Both parents' incomes are combined, the guideline cost of raising the children is looked up, and each parent pays their income share.

Percentage of Income

10 states

The non-custodial parent pays a fixed percentage of their own income — set by number of children.

Melson Formula

3 states

Income Shares, but each parent keeps a self-support reserve for their own basic needs before the split.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is child support calculated in Arkansas?

Arkansas uses the percentage of income model. The non-custodial parent pays a fixed percentage of their own income — set by number of children. Percentage model. 15% for 1 child.

What is the Arkansas guideline for one child?

In Arkansas, the non-custodial parent pays 15% of net income for one child, rising to 30% for five or more.

When can I modify child support in Arkansas?

Arkansas generally requires a 20% change in income — or a material change in custody or the child's needs — before a court will revisit the order.

Does shared custody lower support in Arkansas?

Yes. Once the paying parent has the children around 20% of the time or more, Arkansas courts apply a parenting-time credit; at 50/50 custody the guideline obligation drops roughly 40%. Use the slider above to see the effect on your numbers.
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