Indiana Dissolution of Marriage Costs and Filing Fees (2026)
Indiana has some of the lowest divorce filing fees in the United States — $131–$176 depending on the county. For an agreed, no-children dissolution with modest assets, total out-of-pocket costs can be very low.
Core Filing Costs
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Dissolution filing fee | $131–$176 |
| Certified copies of Decree | $5–$15 per copy |
| Service fees (constable or sheriff, if required) | $20–$60 |
County Variations
Most Indiana counties fall in the $131–$176 range. Some example counties:
| County | Approx. Fee |
|---|---|
| Marion (Indianapolis) | $157–$176 |
| Hamilton | $157 |
| Allen (Fort Wayne) | $141–$157 |
| St. Joseph (South Bend) | $141 |
| Vanderburgh | $131–$157 |
Always confirm the current fee with your county's clerk before filing — fees can change.
Ancillary Costs
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| QDRO — employer retirement plan | $400–$1,500 per plan |
| Real estate deed preparation | $150–$500 |
| County Recorder's recording fee | $25–$100 |
| Property appraisal | $350–$700 |
| Business valuation | $2,000–$10,000 |
| Mediator | $150–$350/hour |
| Attorney for limited review | $300–$1,000 |
Fee Waiver (Indigency Waiver)
Indiana provides for waiver of filing fees for low-income filers.
How to apply:
- Complete an Application to Proceed In Forma Pauperis (available at courts.in.gov)
- Attach proof of income (recent pay stubs, tax returns, benefit statements)
- File with your Petition
- Court clerk or judge reviews and approves
If approved, the filing fee and service fees are waived.
Total Cost Estimates
| Scenario | Estimated Total |
|---|---|
| Agreed, no children, no real estate or retirement | $131–$250 |
| Agreed, with children (agreed on all terms) | $150–$400 |
| With real estate (deed + recording) | $400–$900 |
| With employer retirement account (QDRO) | $600–$2,000 |
| Contested, negotiated settlement | $2,000–$10,000 |
| Contested through trial | $15,000–$60,000+ |
Indiana's Fee Context
At $131–$176, Indiana's filing fees are significantly lower than California ($395–$435), New Jersey ($300+), or New York ($210+). For self-represented filers, Indiana is one of the most cost-accessible states for dissolution.
The self-help forms at courts.in.gov/selfservice are free and cover the complete dissolution process.
Last reviewed: March 2026 | $131–$176 filing fee | courts.in.gov/selfservice for free forms
Written by the SoLongSoulmate.com Editorial Team
Researched using official state court websites, state statutes, and legal aid resources. All filing fees and procedures verified March 2026. This is general legal information — not legal advice.
Last reviewed: March 2026 · Verify current fees and forms with your local court before filing.