Arkansas rules
How Arkansas taxes your paycheck in 2026
Arkansas has aggressively cut its income tax, landing at a top rate of 3.9% for 2026 — far below where it stood just a few years ago. For higher earners the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration applies 2% on the first slice of taxable income and 3.9% above roughly $4,600, after a modest standard deduction.
| Rate | Taxable income |
|---|---|
| 2% | $0 – $4,600 |
| 3.9% | Over $4,600 |
Marginal rates — only income within each band is taxed at that rate. 2026 figures, before the state standard deduction/exemption.
The 3.9% top rate
Arkansas uses separate rate tables for lower incomes, but for typical full-time salaries the effective top rate is 3.9%. The state's standard deduction (about $2,470 single / $4,940 married for 2026) reduces taxable income before the rate applies.
Comparing Arkansas to other states
See how Arkansas stacks up by running the same salary through Tennessee · Louisiana · Missouri.
Questions
Arkansas salary calculator FAQ
What is the Arkansas income tax rate for 2026?
Arkansas's top individual income tax rate is 3.9% for 2026, applied to taxable income above roughly $4,600, with a 2% rate below that. Lower-income filers use separate rate tables with rates that top out at 3.9% as well.
How much is taken out of a paycheck in Arkansas?
An Arkansas paycheck is reduced by federal income tax, 6.2% Social Security, 1.45% Medicare and state income tax up to 3.9%. On a $55,000 single salary, total deductions are roughly 22% to 24%.
Has Arkansas been cutting its income tax?
Yes. Through a series of reforms since 2021, Arkansas has lowered its top individual rate from 6.9% to 3.9%, one of the larger multi-year rate reductions among the states.
What is the take-home pay on $55,000 in Arkansas?
A single filer earning $55,000 in Arkansas takes home roughly $43,900 a year after federal tax, FICA and state income tax. Use the calculator above for your exact figure.
- Sources: Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration (2026 top rate 3.9%) · IRS Rev. Proc. 2025-32 · SSA 2026 wage base.
- 🔄 Last updated June 9, 2026 · Tax year 2026
← Back to the national salary calculator · Compare: Tennessee · Louisiana · Missouri