Arkansas Alimony Calculator

Estimate spousal support (alimony) in Arkansas. Understand the types of alimony available, how courts calculate amounts, and how long payments may last. Updated for 2026.

Discretionary (No Formula)

Arkansas does not use a fixed formula to calculate alimony. Instead, judges have broad discretion to award spousal support based on multiple statutory factors. This means outcomes can vary significantly depending on the judge and the specific circumstances.

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Types of Alimony in Arkansas

Temporary Alimony

Awarded during the pendency of the divorce proceedings to help the lower-earning spouse cover living expenses until the final decree is entered. Terminates when the divorce is finalized.

Rehabilitative Alimony

The most common type of alimony in Arkansas. Provides financial support for a specific period of time while the recipient obtains education, training, or experience needed to become self-supporting. Under Ark. Code Ann. 9-12-312, these payments must qualify as periodic payments within the meaning of the Internal Revenue Code.

Permanent Alimony

Increasingly rare in Arkansas. Long-term spousal support generally reserved for spouses who have poor employment prospects after a lengthy marriage because of their age, health, or disability. Terminates upon the death of either party or remarriage of the recipient.

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Factors Arkansas Courts Consider

When determining whether to award alimony and how much, Arkansas courts evaluate:

1

Financial circumstances of both parties

2

Couple's past standard of living during the marriage

3

Value of jointly owned property

4

Amount and nature of the parties' income, both current and anticipated

5

Extent and nature of the resources and assets of each party

6

Amount of income of each party that is spendable

7

Earning ability and capacity of each party

8

Property awarded or given to one party by the court or the other party

9

Disposition of the homestead or jointly owned property

10

Condition of health and medical needs of both parties

11

Duration of the marriage

How Long Does Alimony Last?

While there is no universal rule, alimony duration in Arkansas generally correlates with the length of the marriage:

Marriage LengthTypical Alimony Duration
Under 5 years0-2 years
5-10 years2-5 years
10-20 years5-10 years
20+ yearsIndefinite / Permanent

These are general guidelines. Actual duration depends on the specific facts of your case and the court's discretion.

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When Does Alimony End?

Specified end date: The date set in the alimony order or agreement
Recipient remarries: Alimony typically terminates automatically upon remarriage
Recipient cohabits: Living with a new partner may be grounds for reduction or termination
Paying spouse retires: Retirement (at a reasonable age) may be a basis for modification
Death of either party: Alimony obligations generally end upon the death of either spouse
Recipient becomes self-supporting: If the recipient achieves financial independence before the end date
Court modification: Either party can petition the court for modification based on changed circumstances

Tax Implications of Alimony

Post-2018 Federal Tax Rules

For divorces finalized after December 31, 2018, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act changed the tax treatment of alimony:

For the Payer

Alimony payments are not deductible from federal taxes.

For the Recipient

Alimony payments are not taxable income for federal taxes.

State tax treatment may differ. Consult a tax professional for advice specific to your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is alimony calculated in Arkansas?
Arkansas does not have a strict formula for calculating alimony. Instead, the court considers multiple factors including the length of the marriage, each spouse's income and earning capacity, standard of living during the marriage, and each spouse's financial needs.
What types of alimony are available in Arkansas?
Arkansas offers several types of alimony: Temporary Alimony, Rehabilitative Alimony, Permanent Alimony. The type awarded depends on the circumstances of your marriage and divorce.
How long does alimony last in Arkansas?
Alimony duration in Arkansas depends on the type awarded and the length of the marriage. Rehabilitative alimony may last 1-5 years, while permanent alimony can continue indefinitely. As a general rule, shorter marriages receive shorter alimony periods. Alimony typically ends upon the recipient's remarriage or either party's death.
Can alimony be modified in Arkansas?
In most cases, yes. Alimony can be modified when there is a substantial change in circumstances, such as a significant change in either party's income, the recipient's remarriage or cohabitation, or a change in health. Lump-sum alimony generally cannot be modified.
Is alimony taxable in Arkansas?
For divorces finalized after December 31, 2018, alimony payments are no longer deductible by the payer or taxable income for the recipient under federal law (per the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act). State tax treatment may vary. Consult a tax professional for your specific situation.

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