Calculate child support using Arkansas's income shares model with 141-overnight threshold adjustments
Free calculator based on Administrative Order No. 10 (effective July 1, 2020). Get accurate estimates including 141-overnight parenting time threshold and $30,000 income cap considerations.
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Arkansas uses an income shares model under Administrative Order No. 10 (effective July 1, 2020). Both parents' gross monthly incomes are combined (capped at $30,000) to determine the Basic Child Support Obligation (BCSO) from the official Family Support Chart. Each parent pays their proportionate share based on their income percentage. Additional expenses like health insurance, childcare, and extraordinary medical costs are allocated proportionally. Arkansas does NOT deduct taxes from gross income - the chart already accounts for standard deductions.
Arkansas law recognizes extended parenting time when a parent has 141 or more overnights per year (approximately 39% of the year). This threshold triggers the court's discretion to adjust the support amount, though adjustment is NOT automatic. For shared physical custody (both parents have 141+ overnights), Arkansas uses an offset method where each parent's obligation is calculated and the difference is paid by the higher obligor. The 141-overnight threshold is unique to Arkansas and reflects the state's recognition that parents with significant parenting time incur direct expenses for the child.
Yes, Arkansas allocates the child's portion of health insurance premiums between both parents proportionally based on income. However, health insurance is only considered "reasonable" if the premium does NOT exceed 5% of the providing parent's gross income. If the premium exceeds 5%, the court may find it unreasonable and order alternative arrangements. Only the child's portion of the premium is included - not coverage for the parent or other family members. Health insurance costs are added to the Basic Child Support Obligation and allocated proportionally.
Child support in Arkansas terminates when the child reaches age 18, UNLESS the child is still attending high school. If the child is still in high school at age 18, support continues until high school graduation or the end of the school year after the child turns 19, whichever occurs first. Support may extend indefinitely for children with disabilities who cannot support themselves. Support also terminates if the child marries, is emancipated by court order, dies, or is adopted. Arkansas does NOT require parents to pay for college or post-secondary education unless they voluntarily agree in writing.
Yes, Arkansas child support can be modified if there is a material change in circumstances resulting in a 20% change in the support amount OR a $100 per month difference. Common reasons for modification include significant income changes (either parent), changes in custody or parenting time, changes in health insurance costs, changes in childcare expenses, or changes in the child's needs. Modification is effective from the filing date (or service date), NOT retroactive. Arkansas OCSE offers administrative review every 36 months. To modify support, you must file a motion with the court and provide current financial information.
Arkansas caps the combined monthly gross income at $30,000 for purposes of looking up the Basic Child Support Obligation from the Family Support Chart. If the combined income exceeds $30,000, the chart amount at $30,000 is used as the base, but the court has discretion to order additional support based on the children's demonstrated needs. There is no specific formula for above-cap support - the court considers the children's lifestyle, standard of living, and actual expenses. Parents with high incomes should consult an attorney to ensure appropriate support levels, as the actual obligation may be significantly higher than the chart amount.
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This calculator provides estimates based on Arkansas state guidelines. Actual court orders may differ based on individual circumstances. Consult with a qualified family law attorney for advice specific to your situation.