Florida Court Fee Waivers for Renters: How to Apply

If you’re a renter in Florida facing eviction, a dispute over rent, or another housing matter, you may need to access the court system to resolve the issue. But court filing fees can be a major hurdle—especially when money is already tight. Fortunately, Florida allows renters with low incomes or financial hardships to request a waiver of these fees through a court process known as “indigency.”

What Is a Court Fee Waiver?

A court fee waiver (often called an "Application for Determination of Civil Indigent Status") can allow you to file court papers—like a response to eviction or a complaint about your rental—without paying the usual filing fees upfront. This ensures access to justice for renters who cannot afford to pay.

Who Handles Housing Disputes in Florida?

Residential landlord-tenant cases in Florida are usually handled in the county's civil court system. The main official body is the Florida State Courts System. Each county clerk's office manages filings and applications within its courts.

When Should You Apply for a Fee Waiver?

You should consider applying for a fee waiver if you:

• Are being evicted and can't afford the court filing fees
• Need to file a court complaint about your landlord (such as for unsafe housing)
• Want to respond to a lawsuit related to your rental

Fee waivers are granted based on your income, family size, and financial situation. Approval means you won’t have to pay certain filing fees, sheriff fees for service of court papers, or other charges related to your case.

Which Form Do You Use and Where Do You Get It?

Application for Determination of Civil Indigent Status

• Form Name/Number: Application for Determination of Civil Indigent Status (No Statewide Number; varies by county)
• Official application form and county links
• When to Use: Use this form at the time you file your court papers, such as an answer to an eviction summons or a new complaint about your rental unit.
• Practical Example: If you just received an eviction notice and want to file an answer but cannot afford the court’s filing fee, fill out the Application for Determination of Civil Indigent Status to request a waiver. Submit the application to your county clerk with your other paperwork.

How Does the Process Work?

After you submit your application, the court will review it—usually right away. If you qualify, the waiver is granted, and your paperwork will be filed without a fee. If not, you’ll be told the amount you must pay.

What Do You Need?

• Completed application (provide accurate details on income, expenses, and household size)
• Supporting documents (like pay stubs or benefit statements, if available)
• Government-issued photo ID

Relevant Florida Tenancy Laws

Renters’ rights in Florida—including eviction procedures—are governed by the Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Chapter 83, Florida Statutes).^[1] Court fees and indigency relief are described in Section 57.082, Florida Statutes – Determination of civil indigent status.^[2]

Steps to Request a Court Fee Waiver in Florida

Follow these steps to apply for a court fee waiver as a renter:

• Get the correct Application for Determination of Civil Indigent Status form (available from your county clerk's office or the Florida Courts website).
• Fill out the form with honest, complete information about your income, expenses, debts, and any public assistance you receive.
• Sign the form—false information is a crime.
• File the completed form with your court documents at the county clerk’s office.
• Wait for the clerk’s decision (often made immediately or within a day).
• If denied, you can ask a judge to review the decision.

This process is designed to ensure that financial hardship does not block renters from defending their rights or accessing justice in Florida housing courts.

FAQ: Court Fee Waivers for Florida Renters

1. What do I do if my application for a fee waiver is denied?
   If your application is denied by the clerk, you have the right to ask a judge to review the decision. Ask the clerk for information on how to request this review.
2. Does a fee waiver cover the rent I might owe?
   No, the waiver only covers court-related costs (like filing and service fees), not any rent or damages determined by the court.
3. Will asking for a fee waiver affect my case outcome?
   No. The decision to grant or deny a waiver has no bearing on the judge’s decisions in your housing dispute.
4. Can I file online or do I need to visit the courthouse?
   Some counties allow e-filing and online submission. Check your county clerk's website for specific options.
5. What proof do I need for the fee waiver application?
   You may be asked for supporting documents like pay stubs, government benefit statements, or recent tax returns. Honest, complete information is essential.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Florida State Courts System – Information on court access and housing matters
• Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Chapter 83)
• Find Your County Clerk’s Office – Filing, forms, and local fee waiver information
• Florida Legal Services – Free or low-cost legal help for tenants
• Legal Services of North Florida (for Panhandle/North Florida residents)
• For emergencies or urgent questions, call the Florida Courts Self-Help Phone Line at 1-850-921-0000

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1. [1] Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Chapter 83, Florida Statutes)
2. [2] Section 57.082, Florida Statutes: Determination of civil indigent status

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