Does paying part of my rent stop eviction in Arkansas?

Not always. A landlord can accept partial rent and still proceed with eviction for any unpaid balance unless a written agreement says otherwise.

Can my landlord refuse my partial rent payment?

Yes. Landlords in Arkansas are not required to accept a partial rent payment unless your lease requires it.

What notice will I receive before being evicted for partial payment?

You'll usually receive a 3-day Notice to Quit for nonpayment. If you don't pay the full balance or move, your landlord may file an eviction case.

Which court handles eviction cases in Arkansas?

Eviction cases are handled in Arkansas District Courts and Circuit Courts.

Partial Rent Payments and Eviction in Arkansas: Renter Guide

Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Arkansas published: June 21, 2025

If you're renting in Arkansas and facing difficulty paying your full rent, it's important to know how partial rent payments impact your eviction risk. Arkansas has unique rental laws, so understanding your rights and the process can help you make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary issues.

Understanding Partial Rent Payments in Arkansas

In Arkansas, if you are unable to pay your entire rent amount, you might consider making a partial payment. While this might seem helpful, Arkansas law allows landlords to reject or accept partial payments, and accepting such a payment can have legal effects on eviction proceedings.

Landlords are not required to accept partial rent payments unless your lease says otherwise.
If your landlord accepts a partial payment, but you still owe more, they may still pursue eviction for the unpaid balance.
Written agreements or receipts are crucial when paying partial rent to prevent misunderstandings.

Eviction Risks After a Partial Rent Payment

Paying part of your rent does not always stop or delay an eviction in the state. Arkansas law is strict: if you owe any unpaid rent, the landlord can start the eviction process unless you have a specific written agreement about the partial payment.

A landlord may proceed with an eviction for nonpayment if the rent is still not paid in full.
Accepting a partial payment might affect the timing of eviction but does not always stop it.
Always request written confirmation from your landlord about how your partial payment affects your eviction risk.

What Happens During the Eviction Process?

If your landlord wants to evict you for nonpayment (even after a partial payment), they must follow specific legal steps:

The landlord provides a Notice to Quit (usually a 3-day notice to vacate for nonpayment).
If you do not pay the full remaining rent or move out, the landlord may file an Unlawful Detainer action in district or circuit court.
The court will decide if eviction should proceed. You will receive official paperwork and have a chance to respond.

If you receive any court documents, read them carefully and respond before any deadlines. Fast action is crucial in Arkansas, where the timeline for eviction is short.

Official Forms Used in Arkansas Eviction Cases

Notice to Quit – This form is used by landlords to officially notify renters that they must pay overdue rent or move out, usually within 3 days. While there is no state-wide standard form, you may see templates called "3-Day Notice to Quit for Nonpayment of Rent". Check the Arkansas Judiciary Forms page for district-specific templates. For example, your landlord must deliver this to you before starting an eviction case.
Unlawful Detainer Complaint – If you remain after the Notice to Quit period, the landlord may file this form in court to start eviction. This is filed with the district or circuit court. See more at the Arkansas Courts official forms page. If you receive this, you must respond before the court date.
Answer to Unlawful Detainer – This is your opportunity to tell the court your side. There is no statewide mandatory form, but sample templates are sometimes available on local district court websites. Responding allows you to explain your circumstances or raise any defenses, such as proper payment or landlord errors.

Always file your response or other forms with the court before the deadline listed. Missing these deadlines may result in automatic eviction.

The Role of Arkansas Courts in Evictions

Residential eviction cases in Arkansas are heard in the Arkansas District Courts or Circuit Courts, depending on the amount of rent owed and your county. You may contact your local district court for specific filing instructions and resources. There is no statewide housing tribunal; all actions go through these state courts.

Arkansas Residential Tenancy Legislation

The Arkansas Code Title 18, Chapter 17: Residential Landlord-Tenant Act of 2007 governs most rights and responsibilities for renters and landlords. It addresses rent, payment requirements, and eviction procedures. Always refer to the full text for details.

Tip: If you can only pay part of your rent, communicate in writing with your landlord. Try to make an agreement about the balance, and keep records of all payments and correspondence.

Action Steps for Arkansas Renters Making Partial Payments

Check your lease for specific rules about partial rent payments.
Contact your landlord before payment to ask if they will accept a partial payment and if it will delay eviction.
Get all agreements in writing (email or letter) and keep receipts.
If you receive a Notice to Quit or court papers, respond quickly and seek legal help if needed.

Address issues promptly and use official channels to protect your rights.

FAQ: Partial Rent and Eviction in Arkansas

Does paying part of my rent stop eviction in Arkansas?
Not always. Landlords may accept partial payment and still proceed with eviction for any unpaid rent, unless a written agreement says otherwise.
Can my landlord refuse my partial rent payment?
Yes, unless your lease requires otherwise. Arkansas landlords are not obligated to take less than the full amount owed.
What kind of notice will I get before eviction for partial payment?
You will typically receive a 3-day Notice to Quit for nonpayment. If you do not pay the full balance or move out, your landlord can file for eviction in court.
Is there a way to stop or delay eviction if I can't pay everything?
Try to reach a written agreement with your landlord. You can also respond to the Unlawful Detainer complaint in court with any defenses.
Which government office handles eviction cases in Arkansas?
Evictions are handled in Arkansas District Courts and Circuit Courts. Find your local court at the Arkansas Courts directory.

Conclusion: What Arkansas Renters Should Remember

Partial rent payments do not always protect you from eviction.
Communication and written agreements with your landlord are key.
Act quickly on any legal notices or eviction documents—deadlines are short.

Understanding state laws gives you the best chance to protect your home and your rights as a renter in Arkansas.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Find Your Local Arkansas District or Circuit Court – For eviction filings and legal forms.
Arkansas Attorney General: Renter & Tenant Protection – Fact sheets and contacts for renters in Arkansas.
Arkansas Legal Services – Free or low-cost legal help for renters facing eviction.
Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act of 2007 (Full Law)