How to Get a Court Fee Waiver in DC Housing Disputes

Accessing the courts is important for renters facing issues such as eviction, rent disputes, or enforcement of housing rights. However, court costs and filing fees in the District of Columbia can sometimes be a barrier. If you can't afford these fees, you may qualify for a court fee waiver, designed to help renters with limited income or financial hardship participate fully in legal proceedings.

What Is a Court Fee Waiver?

A court fee waiver allows you, as a renter, to ask the D.C. Superior Court to excuse you from paying certain court fees—like filing or service fees—if you cannot afford them. This process is also called proceeding "In Forma Pauperis." The court will review your financial situation to decide if you are eligible. Fee waivers can be crucial in eviction, housing code enforcement, and other housing-related matters.

Who Handles Housing Disputes in D.C.?

Housing-related cases in the District of Columbia are handled by the D.C. Superior Court Landlord & Tenant Branch. This branch helps renters and landlords resolve disputes under D.C. law.

Key Legislation for Renters

Your rights and obligations as a renter are protected by several laws, with the main one being the District of Columbia Rental Housing Act. For landlord-tenant court proceedings, the D.C. Code Title 16, Chapter 15: Landlord and Tenant is especially relevant.

How the Court Fee Waiver Works for Renters

If you receive public benefits (like SNAP or TANF) or your income is very low, you may not need to pay any court fees related to your housing dispute. The court will review your application and proof of income before making a decision.

Which Official Form Do You Need?

• Form Name: Application to Proceed Without Prepayment of Costs, Fees, or Security (also known as Form 106A or the In Forma Pauperis Application)
• When to Use: If you cannot afford court fees in a civil case, including eviction, repairs, or security deposit claims, complete this application and file it at the same time as your other court papers.
• How to Use: You must honestly disclose your income, expenses, and any public benefits you receive. Attach supporting documents and submit to the Civil Clerk’s Office or electronically.

Example: If you are responding to an eviction lawsuit but cannot afford the filing fee for your answer or counterclaim, file the fee waiver application with your response. The judge will review it before requiring payment.
You can find the latest version and filing instructions on the D.C. Courts official forms page.

What Happens After You Apply?

• The court will review your form. You may be required to attend a short hearing or provide more proof of income.
• If approved, you will not have to pay the covered fees during your housing case.
• If denied, you’ll be informed and may be required to pay regular fees or appeal the decision.

Decisions are usually made quickly, so housing cases aren’t delayed.

Steps to Apply for a Court Fee Waiver in D.C. Housing Cases

Here’s a summary of how to request a fee waiver as a renter:

• Download the Application to Proceed Without Prepayment of Costs.
• Fill in your personal and financial information honestly.
• Attach proof of income and benefits (such as paystubs or Medicaid card).
• Submit the form at the courthouse Civil Filing Counter or use the D.C. Courts eFiling system.
• Wait for court review and possible follow-up before your fees are decided.

FAQ: Court Fee Waivers for Renters in D.C.

1. Do I need a lawyer to apply for a court fee waiver?
   No, you do not need a lawyer. The forms are designed for renters to use on their own, but legal aid organizations can help for free if you need assistance.
2. Will applying for a fee waiver delay my housing case?
   No, most applications are reviewed quickly so your case can proceed on time.
3. What if my fee waiver application is denied?
   If denied, you may be able to appeal or request a reconsideration, especially if you can provide more recent or different proof of hardship.
4. Do I have to repay court fees if I lose my case?
   No, once your fee waiver is granted, you are not required to pay those fees later, even if you do not win your housing case.
5. Are court fee waivers available for all types of housing cases?
   Yes, you can apply for a fee waiver in any civil housing case in D.C. Superior Court, including evictions, repairs, and security deposit disputes.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• D.C. Superior Court Landlord & Tenant Branch: Case info, forms, and court support
• Legal Aid Society of the District of Columbia: Free help with fee waiver applications and housing problems
• DC Public Library Know Your Rights: Rental housing rights information
• D.C. Rental Housing Act: Full details on tenant protections
• Official D.C. Courts forms page: Download court documents and filing guides

---

1. D.C. Code Title 16: Landlord and Tenant
2. D.C. Rental Housing Act
3. D.C. Superior Court Landlord & Tenant Branch
4. Application to Proceed Without Prepayment of Costs (Form 106A)
5. D.C. Superior Court Civil Forms

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