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
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.