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Executor Compensation Laws in Arkansas

In Arkansas, the court allows just and reasonable compensation, capped at 10% of the first $1,000, 5% of the next $4,000, and 3% of the rest of the personal property administered.

Last checked . General information, not legal advice.

Arkansas at a glance

Compensation method
Just and reasonable, subject to a cap
Extra reasonable compensation may be allowed for substantial services involving real property.
Statutory fee schedule
Cap: 10% first $1,000; 5% next $4,000; 3% of the rest
Based on the value of personal property passing through the personal representative's hands that has been fully administered.
Percentage schedule in statute
Percentage cap

Sources

Last checked

The rules in Arkansas

How is an executor paid in Arkansas?

Compensation method in Arkansas: Just and reasonable, subject to a cap. Extra reasonable compensation may be allowed for substantial services involving real property.

What percentage can an executor charge in Arkansas?

Statutory fee schedule in Arkansas: Cap: 10% first $1,000; 5% next $4,000; 3% of the rest. Based on the value of personal property passing through the personal representative's hands that has been fully administered.

Does Arkansas law set executor fees by a percentage schedule?

Percentage cap. Percentage schedule in statute in Arkansas: percentage cap.

Where do the Arkansas executor compensation laws come from?

The rules above come from Ark. Code 28-48-108. Each source is linked on this page. We last checked them in October 2026.

Good to know

The same statute sets a separate default fee schedule for the estate's attorney, starting at 5% of the first $5,000.

What this means in practice

A will can usually address executor pay directly, for example by setting a flat fee, a percentage, or stating that the executor serves without pay. Where the will is silent, the state's default rule applies. An executor can also choose to waive compensation, which some family members do because fees are generally taxable income while inheritances generally are not.

Executor compensation is separate from reimbursement of expenses and from fees paid to the estate's attorney, accountant, or other professionals. Keeping a written log of hours, tasks, and costs helps support a fee request and answers questions from heirs or the court.

Heirs and beneficiaries who believe a fee is too high can usually object in the probate proceeding, and courts can reduce, deny, or increase compensation in some circumstances. Rules on timing, court approval, and extraordinary services differ, so the statute for the state where the estate is probated is the starting point.

General information, not legal advice. Laws change, and cities can add their own rules, so check the current statute before you rely on it.