Fact Sheet on Fee Waivers

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8116.01

Fact Sheet on Fee Waivers

When you have to file an Answer to an Unlawful Detainer or a Small Claims complaint with the court, you will have to pay a filing fee. The court system does however offer fee waivers for those who qualify. The following are some basic facts about fee waivers in the court system.

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When you have to file an Answer to an Unlawful Detainer or a Small Claims complaint with the court, you will have to pay a filing fee. The court system does however offer fee waivers for those who qualify. The following are some basic facts about fee waivers in the court system.

1. Why do I need to file a Fee Waiver?

The court charges fees for filing the Unlawful Detainer Answer or filing the Small Claims action.

2. What is a Fee Waiver?

A Fee Waiver asks the court to excuse you from having to pay the filing fees. This also waives other court fees such as service of the documents by the sheriff.

3. How do I qualify for a Fee Waiver?

  • You receive public benefits;
  • Your household is low income;
  • Your monthly household expenses are more than your monthly income

4. How do I ask the court for a Fee Waiver?

  • You file two court forms:
    1. The Request for Fee Waiver (FW 001)
    2. The Order on the Request for Fee Waiver (FW 003)
  • Make sure you bring the original and 2 copies of each form to file with the court.