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
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.