I'm Pregnant and Can't Afford the Baby in Arkansas
Facing an unexpected pregnancy often brings immediate financial panic. If you are looking at your expenses and thinking, "I’m pregnant and can’t afford the baby," you are not alone.
You can find a path forward that ensures a safe, stable future for you and your child, regardless of your current bank account balance. We are here to help you understand the resources, state aid, and private support available to you right now.
Don’t wait another day. Get free support today and start the process now.
I’m pregnant and can’t afford a baby — what are my options in Arkansas?
When you are pregnant and need help with money, your financial situation naturally impacts your decision-making process. In Arkansas, you generally have three primary legal options, each with different financial implications:
Parenting with support
If you want to parent but are saying, "I am pregnant and need financial help," there are support systems designed to help you succeed.
Parenting is expensive, but it is not impossible for those with lower incomes. If you choose this path, you will likely need to rely on a combination of personal support (family and friends) and public assistance. In Arkansas, you can piece together a network of aid to cover the essentials:
- Childcare Costs: You may qualify for the School Readiness Assistance (SRA) program (formerly known as vouchers), which helps eligible families cover the cost of daycare while they work or attend school.
- Baby Supplies: Organizations like the Central Arkansas Development Council (CADC) offer a Diaper Assistance Program, and many local pregnancy centers offer "Earn While You Learn" programs where you can get free cribs and clothes by taking parenting classes.
- Parenting Education: Programs like Baby & Me (available through the Arkansas Department of Health) provide mentorship and supplies to new mothers.
Abortion access and costs
If you are considering abortion, it is critical to know the current laws. Arkansas currently bans most abortions with very limited exceptions.
State policies mean the following for abortions in Arkansas:
Choosing adoption with financial help
Adoption is a cost-free option for prospective birth mothers. American Adoptions is a licensed agency, meaning our services are 100% free to you.
Beyond being free, this path allows you to receive financial help.
Under Arkansas law, adoptive families are permitted to pay for your pregnancy-related expenses. This includes your medical bills, rent, utilities, food, and maternity clothing.
If you are pregnant and need money to stay healthy and housed during your pregnancy, adoption provides a structured way to receive that support.
Pregnant and need money? Top Arkansas resources you can access today
If you are saying, "I’m pregnant and I need money," there are resources you can access immediately. Whether you choose to parent or choose adoption, your health comes first.
- Medical Care:
- Arkansas Medicaid: Provides coverage for prenatal care and delivery for income-eligible women.
- Local Health Units: The Arkansas Department of Health offers clinics in every county.
- Housing and Utilities:
- TEA (Transitional Employment Assistance): This is Arkansas’s version of TANF, providing cash assistance to families.
- LIHEAP: Helps low-income families pay utility bills.
- Food and Supplies:
- Maternity Homes: Organizations like St. Joseph’s Helper in Little Rock or similar charities can offer shelter and supplies.
Can I get paid if I place my baby for adoption in Arkansas?
No, you cannot get paid for the baby; that is illegal.
However, if you are pregnant and need money, you can receive court-approved living expenses.
The difference is important.
"Payment" implies you are selling a child, which is human trafficking. "Living expenses" means the adoptive family covers your bills—like rent and groceries—so that you can have a stress-free, healthy pregnancy.
This financial assistance is legal, regulated by the state of Arkansas, and handled entirely by your adoption specialist so you never have to ask the family for money directly.
How American Adoptions supports expectant parents in Arkansas
You need an agency that understands the unique challenges you face in Arkansas. American Adoptions is a national agency with local professionals who understand Arkansas resources.
You’ll receive support from people who have been in your shoes—and you’ll never feel alone on this path.
- Counseling: 24/7 access to licensed social workers.
- Financial Management: We ensure your allowable expenses are paid so you don't have to worry.
- Medical Advocacy: We help you navigate Medicaid and hospital plans.
I’m pregnant and can’t afford the Baby—who can I talk to right now?
It is easy to feel paralyzed when you are facing a financial crisis and an unplanned pregnancy at the same time. But you have options, and you have time to make the right choice.
Imagine moving forward with adoption feeling confident in your financial plan. It’s more achievable than you realize.
Disclaimer
Information available through these links is the sole property of the companies and organizations listed therein. American Adoptions provides this information as a courtesy and is in no way responsible for its content or accuracy.
