When navigating the complexities of child support in Arkansas, understanding how support amounts are calculated is essential. Arkansas employs a structured approach to ensure that child support obligations are fair, consistent, and reflective of the needs of the child and the financial circumstances of both parents.
Arkansas Child Support Guidelines
Arkansas uses the Income Shares Model to calculate child support. This model is based on the principle that children should receive the same proportion of parental income they would have had if their parents lived together. The combined income of both parents is considered, and each parent’s share of the child support obligation is determined based on their percentage of the total income.
The Family Support Chart, adopted by the Arkansas Supreme Court, plays a central role in determining the presumptive amount of child support. This chart provides a baseline for calculating support based on the parent’s combined income and the number of children. While the chart establishes a rebuttable presumption of the correct support amount, courts may deviate from it if applying the chart would be unjust or inappropriate under the circumstances.
Factors Considered in Child Support Calculations
Several factors influence the calculation of child support in Arkansas. These include:
- Parental Income: The gross income of both parents is combined to determine the total available resources for child support.
- Number of Children: The support obligation increases with the number of children requiring support.
- Additional Expenses: Costs such as health insurance premiums, extraordinary medical expenses, and childcare are factored into the calculation.
The court may also consider other relevant factors, such as the standard of living the child would have enjoyed if the parents had remained together, the financial obligations of each parent, and any special needs of the child.
Retroactive Child Support and Adjustments
In some cases, retroactive child support may be awarded. This typically applies when a parent has not fulfilled their support obligations prior to the court order. Retroactive support can be calculated from the date of the child’s birth or up to three years before the filing of the petition, depending on the circumstances.
Adjustments to child support may also be warranted in specific situations. For example, shared custody arrangements or extraordinary time spent with the noncustodial parent can influence the support amount. Additionally, changes in financial circumstances, such as a significant increase or decrease in income, may justify a modification of the support order.
Conclusion
Child support calculations in Arkansas are designed to ensure that children receive the financial support they need while balancing the obligations of both parents. However, the process can be complex, and deviations from the standard guidelines may apply in certain cases.
If you have questions about child support or need assistance with a child support case, our experienced legal team is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your rights and obligations under Arkansas law.
