Kentucky Dissolution of Marriage Filing Fees and Costs (2026)
Kentucky has one of the lowest divorce filing fees in the country — $113 to $148 depending on the county. Combined with free AOC forms, Kentucky is one of the most affordable states for self-represented filers.
Core Filing Costs
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Circuit Court filing fee (Petition) | $113–$148 (varies by county) |
| Service fee (certified mail) | $10–$20 |
| Service fee (sheriff/process server) | $30–$75 |
| Certified copies of Decree | $5–$15 per copy |
| Deed recording at County Clerk | $13–$40 per document |
County Variations
Most Kentucky counties charge approximately $113–$130 for the Circuit Court filing fee. Larger counties (Jefferson County/Louisville, Fayette County/Lexington) may charge up to $148. Always confirm the current fee with the Circuit Court Clerk before filing.
Fee Waiver — In Forma Pauperis (IFP)
Kentucky waives filing fees for qualifying low-income filers.
How to apply:
- Complete the Motion to Proceed In Forma Pauperis and attached Affidavit
- File with the Petition (or before)
- Judge reviews and approves or denies
- If approved: filing fee waived; service fees may also be waived
Eligibility guidelines:
- Income at or near the federal poverty level
- Receipt of public assistance (Medicaid, SNAP, SSI, KTAP)
Ancillary Costs
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| QDRO (employer retirement plan) | $400–$1,500 per plan |
| Property appraisal | $350–$750 |
| Business valuation | $2,000–$10,000 |
| Deed preparation | $150–$400 |
| Deed recording at County Clerk | $13–$40 |
| Mediator (if needed) | $100–$300/hour |
| Attorney consultation (limited scope) | $150–$350/hour |
Total Cost Estimates
| Scenario | Estimated Total |
|---|---|
| Agreed, no children, no real estate or retirement | $150–$300 |
| Agreed, with children, no real estate or retirement | $200–$400 |
| With real estate transfer | $350–$700 |
| With employer retirement (QDRO) | $600–$1,800 |
| Contested | $3,000–$20,000+ |
Kentucky's Cost Advantage
Kentucky's $113–$148 filing fee compares favorably to other states:
- Florida: $400+
- California: $435+
- Connecticut: $350+
- Oregon: $287–$301
The AOC forms are also free at courts.ky.gov/forms — no need to purchase forms from a third-party service.
Last reviewed: March 2026 | $113–$148 filing fee — one of the lowest in the US | Free AOC forms at courts.ky.gov | IFP waiver available | County Clerk for deed recording
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.