Help with Divorce Fees – What You Need to Know

Trying to limit the cost of your divorce can be a frustrating process. But you’re not alone. Each month, over 8,700 people visit our website for guidance on navigating divorce.

In this easy-to-follow guide, we’ll talk about:

•  Ways to save money on divorce fees
•  If Universal Credit can pay for your divorce
•  How you can get help with divorce costs in the UK
•  How to apply for a divorce court fee waiver

According to MoneyHelper, the average cost of a divorce in the UK was £14,561 in 2018, and due to inflation, this cost is only increasing.¹ So it’s understandable to be concerned about your divorce finances.

Don’t worry; our experts have a deep understanding of these topics. We’re here to help you make sense of it all.

Can I get help with divorce costs (UK)?

Some people can get financial support to help with divorce, including court application fees and legal services.

To qualify for help with divorce costs, you’ll probably need to receive state benefits or earn a low income with minimal savings.

This forum user reached out to the MoneySavingExpert community for advice about her divorce. Other forum users confirmed there is no downside to a sole application if they divorce on amicable terms.

State benefits that allow eligibility for divorce cost assistance

If you receive one or more of the following state benefits, you may be eligible for assistance with court fees for divorce:

• ESA – Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
• Income Support
• JSA – Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
• Universal Credit (and earn less than £6,000 per year)
• Pension Credit (Guarantee Credit)

What is the average cost of a divorce?

Money Helper states that the average divorce costs more than £14,000.

However, this isn’t just the average cost of the divorce process. The divorce cost breakdown includes additional expenses you may need to pay as a result of the separation, for instance, if one of the parties needs to move home or if additional childcare is required.

The real average divorce cost excluding lifestyle changes is much lower.

You should expect to pay between a couple of hundred pounds to around £2,000 in most cases, depending on whether you do a DIY divorce or use a solicitor. 

Divorce Costs

Divorce often comes with significant financial implications. Understanding the costs involved will help you prepare financially for the process.

I’ve prepared this table that provides a breakdown of the various costs associated with divorce.

Will Universal Credit pay for my divorce?

You cannot receive Universal Credit payments to fund your divorce specifically.

However, if you receive Universal Credit, you might have access to financial support to help with divorce fees. 

You should also be aware that a large financial divorce settlement could affect your right to claim Universal Credit in the future.

If you receive a lot of money from your ex-spouse as part of the divorce, you might no longer be eligible for Universal Credit. 

If you’re worried about this, it’s best to speak with Citizens Advice for more information and support. 

Help with divorce costs – court fee help

You can get money off the court application fee of £593 in some situations. There are criteria you need to meet to qualify for a court divorce fee waiver:

1. You need to have less than £3,000 in savings if the court fee is below £1,000 and you’re younger than 61. If you’re over 61 you can have up to £16,000 in savings. 
2. You receive certain state benefits listed here, or you earn £1,170 per month (pre-tax) if you’re single or £1,345 (pre-tax) if you have a partner. You can earn up to £265 more each month for each child you have.

For example, a single parent with two children could earn up to £1,700 (pre-tax) and still get a divorce fee remission. 

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How to apply for a divorce court fee waiver

To apply for money off your divorce application fee, you can make a paper-based application or apply online using the UK Government’s website.

If applying for help with fees online, you will need to do it when you’re making your court application while going through the online divorce process.

You will need the court or tribunal form number, your case number (if you have one), and your National Insurance number or Home Office reference number.

You may also need details of your income, savings, and your partner’s income, savings and investments.

Form EX160 for paper-based application

If you want to apply by post, you will need to download and complete the EX160 form. Alternatively, you can request a copy from your nearest court.

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Can you get legal aid for a divorce (UK)?

The rules regarding legal aid for divorce are different across the UK. 

In England and Wales, legal aid isn’t available to help with a divorce in most cases. There are some exceptions, such as when domestic abuse or child abduction occurs or if you’re at risk of homelessness. 

Legal aid may also be available in England and Wales for mediation services, which might be required as part of financial settlement in a divorce. You’ll need to be on state benefits or on a low income to qualify. 

Divorce costs in England and Wales vs. Scotland and Northern Ireland

The situation in Scotland and Northern Ireland is different. Legal aid for divorces may be available for low earners in these countries.

Scotland offers legal aid for those struggling to afford to pay. Individuals may be able to get legal aid for divorce advice and legal aid for divorce court action.

In Northern Ireland, your divorce solicitor can apply for legal aid when you qualify as a low earner. Moreover, the costs of mediation in divorce in Northern Ireland are non-existent as it is free for everyone.

References

1. Money Helper – Divorce Costs