Divorce on Universal Credit: court fees and help

Trying to limit the cost of a divorce, especially when you are on Universal Credit, can be a challenge. But we’re here to help.

It's a tough time, but remember, you're not alone.

In this simple guide, we’ll discuss:

How you can save money on divorce fees
The process of divorce in the UK
The usual cost of a UK divorce
How to manage finances during a divorce

A historic UK-wide survey average is not a current quote for your divorce. Separate court fees from professional help, financial-order work and changes to household costs.

Don’t worry, we’re here to help you limit your divorce costs, even when on Universal Credit.

Questions about the divorce process?

Paid general legal information from JustAnswer.

For divorce questions, check that the service fits your jurisdiction and question.

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Can I get a divorce for free if I am on Universal Credit?

Universal Credit may support an application for Help with Fees, but benefit, earnings, savings and other eligibility rules still apply. Receiving Universal Credit alone does not guarantee that every divorce cost is waived.

How does divorce work in the UK?

The way divorce works in the UK differs based on location.

Scotland has its own legal grounds and simplified or ordinary procedures. A simplified application has conditions, including restrictions involving children under 16 and unresolved finances.

The appropriate Scottish procedure does not depend solely on whether the other person accepts a reason. Check the court guidance or obtain advice.

England and Wales introduced the current no-fault divorce process on 6 April 2022.

One or both spouses can apply, stating that the marriage has broken down irretrievably. Limited legal challenges remain possible, but the other spouse cannot simply veto that statement. See related guidance.

The purpose of a no-fault divorce is to stop any finger-pointing and try to make the process more amicable when it comes to dividing finances and assets.

In England and Wales, no-fault divorce has applied since 6 April 2022. You normally wait at least 20 weeks from issue before applying for a conditional order, then at least six weeks and one day before applying for the final order. Processing, service or other issues can make it take longer.

Ending the marriage does not itself decide how assets, pensions, debts or maintenance should be dealt with.

Prepare your divorce questions

Paid general legal information from JustAnswer.

Write down what you want to understand about the divorce process or financial arrangements. Procedures depend on your circumstances and where you live.

For advice on your own case, consider a professional adviser who can act for you.

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Memberships renew automatically until cancelled. Check the initial price, renewal price, billing interval and cancellation terms.

The standard service does not create a solicitor-client relationship. No successful outcome is guaranteed.

How much does a UK divorce cost?

In England and Wales, the divorce application fee is £628 according to HMCTS fees checked on 4 October 2026. This is one fee for the application, including a joint application. Check the current schedule before applying. See related guidance.

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Advertisement. Paid general legal information from JustAnswer. Memberships renew automatically until cancelled. Check the initial price, renewal price, billing interval and cancellation terms. The standard service does not create a solicitor-client relationship. No successful outcome is guaranteed. MoneyNerd may receive a referral fee.

This doesn’t include other costs associated with divorce, such as solicitor fees, possible mediation costs, and financial orders if one is required.

Other divorce expenses people sometimes forget about are the expense of finding new accommodation and moving costs.

A more detailed breakdown can be found on our How Much Does Divorce Cost? guide.

Divorce Costs

The table below is an overview. Check the current fees and your eligibility for support in the relevant UK jurisdiction.

Category	Costs
Court Fees	Filing for Divorce: £628 application fee in England and Wales, according to GOV.UK checked 4 October 2026. Fee help may be available; check current fees before applying. Additional Applications: Financial orders or child arrangements.
Legal representation	Solicitors may charge fixed fees or hourly rates. Obtain a written quote showing VAT, included work and additional charges; costs depend on the case and provider.
Barrister Fees	For cases that go to court or require specialised legal advice. The cost of this will be completely dependent on your case and preferences.
Financial Advisor or Accountant Fees	For cases involving complex financial matters. The cost of this will be completely dependent on your case and preferences.
Valuation Fees	You may need to pay for property, business, or pension valuations as part of the financial settlement. The cost of this will be completely dependent on your case and preferences.
Out-of-Court Options	Mediation, collaborative law and arbitration have different charging structures. Ask for a written estimate and check eligibility for legal aid or any current mediation support scheme.
Indirect Costs	Time off work to attend court hearings or meetings with solicitors. Child maintenance costs.