How to Get a Housing Court Fee Waiver in Connecticut

Facing a housing dispute in Connecticut can feel overwhelming, especially when court filing fees seem too high to afford. If you’re a renter dealing with eviction, landlord-tenant disputes, or any housing case, Connecticut provides ways to request a waiver of court costs. This guide explains what you need to know about getting a court fee waiver, what forms to use, and how the process works, all in renter-friendly language.

Understanding Court Fee Waivers for Connecticut Renters

Many Connecticut renters worry about the cost of going to court. Filing a case, responding to an eviction, or appealing a housing decision often comes with fees. These fees should not stop you from accessing your legal rights. Connecticut law allows people with low income to apply for a court fee waiver, which can remove or reduce these costs in housing cases.

What Is a Court Fee Waiver?

A court fee waiver is official permission from the court that lets you file or defend a case without paying court fees upfront. This can cover costs like starting a case, filing motions, or serving court papers.

Who Handles Rental Disputes and Fee Waivers in Connecticut?

In Connecticut, residential housing cases are handled by the Housing Session of the Connecticut Judicial Branch. This is the tribunal where renters and landlords resolve disputes, such as evictions or housing code violations.

How to Apply: Official Forms and Steps for Renters

To request a court fee waiver for a housing case, you need to fill out and submit the correct official court forms. Here are the key forms and when to use them:

• Application for Waiver of Fees/Payment of Costs (JD-CV-120):
  
  • When and how it's used: Submit this form any time you need to file a new case, respond to an eviction, or file court paperwork but cannot afford the required fees. For example, if your landlord has started an eviction and you want to fight it but the court’s answer fee is too high, you would use this form to apply for a waiver.
  • Download the Application for Waiver of Fees/Payment of Costs (JD-CV-120)
• Financial Affidavit (JD-FM-6):
  
  • When and how it's used: This form must be filled out and submitted along with your waiver application. It provides the court with information about your monthly income, expenses, and assets to prove you cannot pay the fees. For instance, if you are between jobs or receive public benefits, this form helps show your financial need.
  • Download the Financial Affidavit (JD-FM-6)

Both forms are filed with the court clerk at the courthouse where your housing case is being handled.

Connecticut Law Protecting Your Access to the Courts

The right to seek a fee waiver in housing cases is grounded in state law. For renters, this means financial hardship does not have to prevent you from standing up for your rights. The rules for residential tenancies, including legal protections, are mostly found in the Connecticut General Statutes Chapter 832 – Landlord and Tenant.¹

What Happens After You File for a Fee Waiver?

Once you submit your application and financial affidavit, the court will review them to decide if you qualify. Sometimes, the judge may request additional information, or you might be asked to appear for a brief interview. If approved, you’ll be able to continue your housing case without payment of court fees.

Steps to Request a Court Fee Waiver

Applying for a fee waiver in Connecticut housing court is straightforward. Here are the typical steps:

• Get the Application for Waiver of Fees/Payment of Costs (JD-CV-120)
• Fill out the Financial Affidavit (JD-FM-6)
• Attach copies of your proof of income or public assistance if possible
• Submit all forms to the housing court clerk (in person or by mail, depending on court rules)
• Wait for the judge’s decision. Follow any additional instructions from the court

If in doubt, court staff will answer questions about the forms and the process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Fee Waivers in Connecticut Housing Court

1. Do I need a lawyer to apply for a court fee waiver?
   No, you do not need a lawyer. Connecticut housing courts provide user-friendly forms so renters can apply for fee waivers on their own.
2. What documents should I include with my application?
   Include proof of income, recent pay stubs, and documentation of any public assistance you receive, if available. This supports your Financial Affidavit.
3. Can I appeal if my fee waiver application is denied?
   Yes. If your request is denied, you have a right to ask the judge to reconsider. Speak to court staff about the process for reviewing a denial.
4. Will applying for a fee waiver delay my eviction case?
   Typically, no. The process is usually quick, but it’s best to apply early to avoid any possible delay.
5. Where do I find help filling out these forms?
   You can visit the courthouse, contact state legal aid, or review instructions on the Connecticut Judicial Branch website.

Key Takeaways for Connecticut Renters

• Connecticut courts offer fee waivers to make sure housing justice is accessible to everyone.
• Use Form JD-CV-120 and a Financial Affidavit to apply for relief from court costs.
• If you receive public benefits or have low income, you likely qualify for a waiver.

Remember, the cost of filing for housing justice should never block you from protecting your rights as a Connecticut renter.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Connecticut Housing Session Courts – Locations & Information
• Connecticut Judicial Branch Housing Case FAQs
• Connecticut Legal Aid’s Guide to Court Fee Waivers
• Connecticut Department of Social Services (to confirm public benefit eligibility)
• Connecticut Court ADA Services (for accessibility needs)

---

1. Connecticut General Statutes Chapter 832 – Landlord and Tenant Law
2. Connecticut Judicial Branch Housing Session
3. Application for Waiver of Fees/Payment of Costs (JD-CV-120) – Official Form
4. Financial Affidavit (JD-FM-6) – Official Form

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations