Published on 3/20/2026
You and your spouse have already agreed to end your marriage. The decision is made. In California, if your situation is straightforward (married less than 5 years, no children, limited property and debt) the state offers a faster, lower-cost option than standard divorce: summary dissolution. This post covers who qualifies, what it costs, and what the filing process looks like.
What Are the Requirements for a Summary Dissolution in California?
Summary dissolution is available only to couples who meet a specific set of eligibility criteria set by California law. All of the following must be true at the time you file:
•You need to meet minimum residency requirements: typically, one spouse has lived in California for the last six months and in the filing county for the last three months
•You have been married for fewer than five years
•You have no children together and neither spouse is pregnant
•Neither spouse owns real estate
•Have less than $57,000 in property assets together (community) and separately
•Community debts are less than $7,000
