California · Uncontested divorce
How much is an uncontested divorce in California? (2026)
The main cost is the first-appearance filing fee, about $435, paid when you file the petition. A responding spouse who files a response pays a similar fee. Disclosure copying and optional certified judgments can add a little, and the FW-001 waiver can eliminate the fee if you qualify.
- Petition filing feeFirst-appearance fee; varies slightly by county
- ~$435
- Response filing feeOnly if the other spouse files a formal response
- ~$435
- Certified copy of judgmentOptional; needed for some name and title changes
- $5–$25
- Fee waiverRequest to Waive Court Fees (FW-001) can cover fees if you qualify
- $0
Can't afford the fee? California offers a waiver (Request to Waive Court Fees (FW-001)). If you qualify, the court filing fee drops to $0. See the waiver form
Want to estimate your all-in cost? Try our divorce cost calculator.
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