Iowa Dissolution of Marriage Filing Fees and Costs (2026)
Iowa's filing fee varies by county, typically ranging from $185 to $220. The Electronic Divorce path uses the same fee structure.
Court Filing Fees
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Petition for Dissolution of Marriage | $185–$220 (varies by Iowa county) |
| Counterclaim (Respondent) | $100–$150 (varies) |
| Certified copies of Decree | $10–$20 per copy |
| Filing fee waiver | Application required |
Common Iowa county fees:
- Polk County (Des Moines): ~$220
- Linn County (Cedar Rapids): ~$200
- Johnson County (Iowa City): ~$185
- Check your specific District Court's fee schedule before filing
Fee Waiver — Application for Waiver of Filing Fees
Iowa waives filing fees for qualifying low-income filers.
How to apply:
- Complete the Application for Waiver of Fees (IA forms at iowacourts.gov)
- File with the Petition
- Court reviews income and expenses
- If approved: filing fee waived
Eligibility: Generally income at or below 125% of federal poverty level; receipt of public assistance; gross income insufficient to cover basic necessities.
Electronic Divorce — Fee
The Electronic Divorce uses the same fee structure as the standard petition. There is no additional fee for using the online Electronic Divorce system.
Ancillary Costs
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Sheriff's service (solo petition) | $25–$60 |
| Certified copies of Decree | $10–$20 per copy |
| QDRO (employer retirement plan) | $500–$2,000 per plan |
| Real estate appraisal | $350–$700 |
| Iowa County Recorder deed recording | $7/page (flat in most Iowa counties) |
| Business valuation | $3,000–$15,000 |
| Mediator | $150–$350/hour |
Total Cost Estimates
| Scenario | Estimated Total (self-represented) |
|---|---|
| Electronic Divorce (no children, no real estate) | $200–$450 |
| Agreed, no children | $250–$600 |
| Agreed, with children | $400–$900 |
| With real estate and retirement | $800–$2,500 |
| Contested | $5,000–$50,000+ |
Last reviewed: March 2026 | $185–$220 filing fee by county | Fee waiver available | Electronic Divorce same fee | County Recorder for deed recording ($7/page) | iowacourts.gov
SoLongSoulmate.com Editorial Team
Researched using official state court websites and verified legal aid resources. Filing fees and procedures verified June 2026. General legal information only — not legal advice.
Last reviewed: March 2026 · Verify current fees and forms with your local court before filing.