Updated May 2026 Washington
Washington Divorce Filing Fee (2026)
All court costs for filing divorce in Washington — including filing fees, service costs, and optional surcharges.
LegalCostCalculator Editorial Team
Data sourced from official government websites · Last reviewed:
$314
Base Filing Fee
$60
Sheriff Service
None
Children Surcharge
$374
Est. Total (with service)
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Base Filing Fee
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How to File → Divorce Court Costs in Washington
Filing for divorce in Washington requires paying a base filing fee of $314 to the court. This fee opens your case and is paid by the petitioner (the spouse filing first).
Washington 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 Washington
After filing, you must legally serve your spouse with the divorce papers:
- Sheriff / constable: $60
- Private process server: $100
Washington has a moderate-to-high filing fee. King County (Seattle) and Pierce County (Tacoma) fees are consistent with the statewide figure.
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 $314 filing fee, ask the clerk for an In Forma Pauperis (IFP) application. Most Washington courts waive fees for filers below 125–200% of the federal poverty level.Frequently Asked Questions — Washington Divorce
How much does it cost to file for divorce in Washington?
Filing for divorce in Washington costs $314 for the base court filing fee. Add $60 for sheriff service of process, bringing the estimated court total to $374. This is the court cost only — attorney fees are additional and vary widely.
What is the divorce filing fee in Washington?
The Washington divorce filing fee is $314. This is a one-time fee paid to the court clerk when the petitioner files the initial divorce petition. The fee must be paid before the court will process your case.
How can I get the divorce filing fee waived in Washington?
To get the divorce filing fee waived in Washington, 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 Washington require a parenting class for divorce?
Yes — Washington 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 Washington?
An uncontested divorce in Washington 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 Washington?
Many Washington courts allow you to download and print divorce forms from their websites, but in-person filing at the courthouse is still required. For uncontested divorces, online services can prepare all the paperwork you then file locally.
Divorce Filing Fees by County in Washington
Fees vary by county in Washington. Select a county for exact costs, court address, and filing instructions.
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