Massachusetts Divorce Forms — Complete Guide (2026)
Massachusetts provides standardized divorce forms through mass.gov/divorce-forms. The 1A and 1B packets are distinct — download the correct packet for your situation.
Where to Get Massachusetts Divorce Forms
Primary source: mass.gov/divorce-forms
Forms are available as fillable PDFs. The court also provides paper copies at the Probate and Family Court Clerk's office.
1A Forms (Joint Petition)
| Form | Number | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Joint Petition for Divorce Under GL c. 208, § 1A | CJD 101A | Initiating document — both spouses sign |
| Financial Statement (Short Form) | CJD 301S | For each spouse with annual income under $75,000 |
| Financial Statement (Long Form) | CJD 301L | For each spouse with annual income $75,000 or more |
| Separation Agreement | (No standard number — drafted by parties) | Complete agreement on all issues |
| Record of Absolute Divorce or Annulment | HHS Form | Vital statistics — required by MA Registry of Vital Records |
| Certificate of Absolute Divorce | Court-issued | Issued after nisi period expires |
1B Forms (Complaint)
| Form | Number | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Complaint for Divorce | CJD 101B | Petitioner files to initiate |
| Summons | Standard court form | Notifies Respondent |
| Financial Statement (Short or Long) | CJD 301S / 301L | Required from both parties |
| Answer to Complaint | Court form | Filed by Respondent |
| Separation Agreement (if case settles) | (Drafted by parties) | Filed when parties reach agreement |
Financial Statements — Critical Details
The Financial Statement is the single most important document in a Massachusetts divorce beyond the Separation Agreement. Both parties must file one. The court will not proceed without complete, current Financial Statements.
Short Form (CJD 301S) — Annual income under $75,000:
- Current weekly income by source
- Current weekly expenses by category
- Assets (list each asset with approximate value)
- Liabilities (list each debt with balance and monthly payment)
- Must be signed under penalty of perjury
Long Form (CJD 301L) — Annual income $75,000 or more:
- Same categories as short form but in more detail
- Monthly (not weekly) income and expenses
- More detailed asset and liability schedules
- Requires more documentation
Both spouses file their own Financial Statement. The forms are individual — not joint.
The Separation Agreement
The Separation Agreement is a contract — not a standard court form. Draft it carefully. It must address:
Real property:
- Address and legal description
- Which spouse receives it (or sale terms)
- Equity division method
- Refinancing deadline and fallback
- Deed transfer instructions
Financial accounts:
- Each bank account (institution, account type, split or assign)
- Each investment account
- Each retirement account (QDRO or IRA transfer method and formula)
Vehicles:
- Each vehicle (description, who keeps, loan balance, refinancing)
Debts:
- Each significant debt (assigned to which spouse; indemnification)
Alimony (under 2012 Alimony Reform Act):
- Type (general term, rehabilitative, reimbursement, transitional)
- Monthly amount
- Duration (tied to marriage length under the Act)
- Termination events
- OR: explicit waiver of alimony by the recipient spouse
Children (if applicable):
- Legal custody (joint or sole)
- Physical custody / parenting schedule (school year, summers, holidays)
- Child support (per Massachusetts Child Support Guidelines)
After the Absolute Divorce: Deed Recording
Massachusetts counties use the county Registry of Deeds for recording property transfers.
After the divorce becomes absolute:
- Prepare a Quitclaim Deed (standard for divorce transfers in MA)
- The leaving spouse signs and notarizes
- Record at the Registry of Deeds in the county where the property is located
- Pay recording fee (~$105–$175)
Last reviewed: March 2026 | Forms: mass.gov/divorce-forms | Both spouses file Financial Statements in every MA divorce
Last reviewed: March 2026 · Verify current fees and forms with your local court before filing.