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Fee Waiver Eligibility Checker

See if you qualify to have court filing fees waived based on your income.

Check Your Eligibility

Include everyone who lives with you and shares expenses

$

Combine income from all household members (wages, benefits, etc.)

Including: SNAP (food stamps), SSI, TANF, Medicaid, Section 8, CalWORKs, or similar programs

What is a Fee Waiver?

A fee waiver (also called “in forma pauperis”) allows low-income individuals to file court cases without paying the usual filing fees.

Typically covers:

  • Court filing fees
  • Service of process fees
  • Jury fees (if applicable)
  • Court reporter fees

How to Apply

1

Get the fee waiver form from your local court or download it online

2

Fill out the form with your income, expenses, and household information

3

Submit it with your court filing (or before if required)

4

The court will review and grant, partially grant, or deny your request

Site assistant

Hi, I am the Small Claims Helper assistant. Ask what you need, and I will include direct page links to the right part of the site.

Disclaimer: This assistant explains how to use this website only. It is not a licensed attorney, does not provide legal advice, and cannot evaluate your case. Always verify court rules with official sources.