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Ask for a court fee waiver

California Courts instructions for requesting a court fee waiver, with limits and possible continuing obligations.

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Choose the exact case type and court before filing. Court self-help information and a referral do not establish an attorney-client relationship.
Court fees, service requirements, response deadlines and exceptions depend on the current procedure. A link is an informational starting point, not a complete filing workflow.
Court branches, clerk windows, telephone assistance and remote appearances may have different instructions. Check the cited official page for the applicable channel.

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California Courts Self-Help Guide

Shared California Courts self-help guidance, available for all 58 California county court contexts; local procedures and individual circumstances vary.

Request a court fee waiverOfficial instructions

Shared California Courts Self-Help Guide. Read the instructions for your situation and check the local court requirements.

Service area: California statewide self-help information; this is one shared guide, not a separate local provider in each county. Area details & sources

Shared statewide guidance; local procedures, case types and exceptions may differ

In most cases, you have to pay a fee to file papers with the court. If you can’t afford court fees, you can ask the court for a fee waiver.

Official information checked October 26, 2026 · Details & sources

Shared statewide guidance; local procedures, case types and exceptions may differ

A fee waiver lets you file your papers for free. It may also cover some other court costs.

Official information checked October 26, 2026 · Details & sources

Source checked October 26, 2026

Judicial Council of California · Ask for a Fee Waiver | California Courts | Self Help Guide (opens in a new tab)

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Ask for a fee waiver if you can't afford court fees

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