How Much Does It Cost to Modify Child Support in Colorado? (2026)

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Last Updated: May 2026

The filing fee to modify child support in Colorado is $105. That number is not easy to find. The Colorado Judicial Branch’s fee schedule lists it under “Motion to Modify Decree or Final Order” — not under anything containing the words “child support.”

The Filing Fee: $105

Every child support modification — whether a Motion (JDF 1403) or a Stipulation (JDF 1404) — costs $105 under C.R.S. § 13-32-101 and applies in every county.

E-Filing Adds Fees

If you file through Colorado Courts E-Filing (CCE), the CCE e-filing fee is $12 per filing, and electronic service through the system costs another $12. In Denver County, 2nd Judicial District: $105 + $12 + $12 = $129 total.

Service, Notary, and Other Costs

Certified mail: $8–15. Process server: $50–100. JDF 1111 notarization: $5–15. Copies at the courthouse: $0.25 single-sided, $0.50 double-sided, $15 max. Dual modification (child support and maintenance): $105 per modification = $210 in filing fees alone.

Fee Waivers (JDF 205)

Full fee waiver if income is at or below 125% FPL: $19,950/year for a household of one in 2026. Partial waivers up to 250% FPL ($39,900). Catch: fee waiver recipients cannot e-file through CCE — must file in person.

What an Attorney Costs, by Comparison

Attorney fees typically start with a $2,000–5,000 retainer. Contested modification: $3,000–7,000+. Uncontested stipulation: $1,500–3,000.

Pro se e-filing: $129–139. Pro se in person: $105 + service costs. Pro se with fee waiver: $0 filing + service costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is the filing fee? $105 for a Motion or Stipulation. E-filing adds $12, electronic service adds $12.

Can I get the fee waived? If income is at or below 125% FPL ($19,950/year in 2026) — apply with JDF 205 and JDF 206.

Does it change by county? No. Set by C.R.S. § 13-32-101 statewide.

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The step-by-step process for filing is covered separately. Fee schedule and forms at coloradojudicial.gov. Self-help forms at coloradojudicial.gov/self-help-forms.