Updated May 2026 Illinois
Illinois Divorce Filing Fee (2026)
All court costs for filing divorce in Illinois — including filing fees, service costs, and optional surcharges.
LegalCostCalculator Editorial Team
Data sourced from official government websites · Last reviewed:
$289
Base Filing Fee
$60
Sheriff Service
None
Children Surcharge
$354
Est. Total (with service)
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Base Filing Fee
Children Surcharge
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E-Filing Fee
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How to File → Divorce Court Costs in Illinois
Filing for divorce in Illinois requires paying a base filing fee of $289 to the court. This fee opens your case and is paid by the petitioner (the spouse filing first).
Illinois requires a parenting class when minor children are involved. Fees typically range from $30–$75 and must be completed before the divorce is finalized.
Service of Process in Illinois
After filing, you must legally serve your spouse with the divorce papers:
- Sheriff / constable: $60
- Private process server: $100
Illinois fees vary significantly by county. Cook County (Chicago) can be notably more expensive due to local surcharges and mandatory forms.
Uncontested divorce saves thousands
If both spouses agree on property division, custody, and support, an uncontested divorce avoids attorney fees entirely. Court costs are typically the only expense — often under $500 total.Fee waiver available
If you can't afford the $289 filing fee, ask the clerk for an In Forma Pauperis (IFP) application. Most Illinois courts waive fees for filers below 125–200% of the federal poverty level.Frequently Asked Questions — Illinois Divorce
How much does it cost to file for divorce in Illinois?
Filing for divorce in Illinois costs $289 for the base court filing fee. Add $60 for sheriff service of process, bringing the estimated court total to $354. This is the court cost only — attorney fees are additional and vary widely.
What is the divorce filing fee in Illinois?
The Illinois divorce filing fee is $289. This is a one-time fee paid to the court clerk when the petitioner files the initial divorce petition. E-filing is available in Illinois for an additional $5. The fee must be paid before the court will process your case.
How can I get the divorce filing fee waived in Illinois?
To get the divorce filing fee waived in Illinois, file an In Forma Pauperis (IFP) application with the court at the same time as your divorce petition. You must demonstrate that your household income falls below 125–200% of the federal poverty level. If you receive public benefits like Medicaid, SNAP, or SSI, you likely qualify automatically. A judge — not the clerk — must approve the waiver.
Does Illinois require a parenting class for divorce?
Yes — Illinois requires divorcing parents with minor children to complete a court-approved parenting class before the divorce is finalized. The class covers the impact of divorce on children and co-parenting strategies. Fees typically range from $30–$75 and must be paid directly to the approved provider.
How long does a divorce take in Illinois?
An uncontested divorce in Illinois where both spouses agree on all terms can be finalized in as little as 1–3 months, depending on the court's schedule and any mandatory waiting periods. A contested divorce — involving disputes over property, custody, or support — typically takes 6–18 months or longer. After filing, most states require a mandatory waiting period before a judge can sign the final decree.
Can I file for divorce online in Illinois?
Yes — Illinois courts accept electronic filing (e-filing) for divorce cases. An additional e-filing fee of $5 applies. For a fully online uncontested divorce, services like 3StepDivorce prepare all state-specific forms and guide you through the process.
Divorce Filing Fees by County in Illinois
Fees vary by county in Illinois. Select a county for exact costs, court address, and filing instructions.
Browse all counties across all states →Also See for Illinois
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