Maine Renters: How to Request a Court Fee Waiver

If you’re a renter in Maine facing a housing dispute that may go to court—such as eviction (also called a "Forcible Entry and Detainer" case), rent disputes, or repair issues—you may be worried about court filing fees. Fortunately, Maine courts offer ways for renters with limited income to request a court fee waiver. This process ensures that you can protect your housing rights, even if you can’t afford to pay court costs upfront.

Understanding Court Fee Waivers in Maine Housing Cases

In Maine, if you cannot afford to pay costs like court filing fees, you can ask the court to "waive" these fees by submitting an official request. If approved, you won’t need to pay eligible court costs for your case to move forward. This support is available to renters with limited income.

What Is a Fee Waiver?

A court fee waiver is also called “In Forma Pauperis” status. If you qualify, the court may let you file your housing case without paying the usual court fees, such as the fee for filing an eviction response or starting a case for repairs.

Who Handles Housing Cases in Maine?

Housing cases for renters and landlords in Maine (like eviction or repair disputes) are handled by the Maine District Court. If you’re unsure which court location to use, Maine’s District Courts cover most residential landlord-tenant issues.

Relevant Tenancy Law in Maine

Your rights as a renter fall under Maine Revised Statutes, Title 14, Chapter 709: Forcible Entry and Detainer, as well as Chapter 710: Tenancies and Rents.^[1]

Which Form Do I Need for a Fee Waiver?

Renters can use the following official form to request a fee waiver:

• Application to Proceed Without Payment of Fees (Form CV-067)
  Download the Application to Proceed Without Payment of Fees (CV-067)
  When and how to use it: If you need to file or respond to a housing case (such as eviction or a complaint about repairs), but cannot afford the court costs, fill out this form. Attach detailed financial information about your income and expenses. Submit the completed application to the court clerk where your case is filed. For example, if you receive a "Notice to Quit" from your landlord and want to respond to an eviction case, submit this form along with your response.

After you submit the form, a judge will review your information and decide whether to grant the fee waiver. Sometimes, you may be asked for more details or to attend a brief hearing about your financial situation.

Who Qualifies for a Fee Waiver?

• People with low income, including those who receive public benefits like Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), or other needs-based assistance.
• People with little or no income, or facing financial hardship due to recent changes in their life (like a job loss).
• Your finances must be explained fully on the application to give the judge enough information to make a fair decision.

How to File Your Maine Court Fee Waiver Request

• Complete the Application to Proceed Without Payment of Fees (CV-067) and attach supporting documents (such as proof of benefits, pay stubs, or bank statements, if possible).
• Submit it at the court clerk’s office—either when you start your case, or when responding to a court notice.
• Wait for the court to review your request. The judge may grant the waiver right away or ask you to provide more information.
• If your fee waiver is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision.

This process can help you move forward with your housing case, even if you can’t afford court costs up front.

Summary: Maine Court Fee Waivers for Renters

By understanding how to file for a fee waiver, Maine renters can access the courts to defend against evictions or bring repair claims—regardless of income.

Frequently Asked Questions: Maine Renters & Court Fee Waivers

1. Who can get a court fee waiver in Maine housing cases?
   Generally, renters who receive certain public benefits or have low income and can’t afford court costs may qualify, but the judge will review your financial situation for eligibility.
2. What form do I need to ask for a fee waiver in Maine?
   Use the Application to Proceed Without Payment of Fees (CV-067) and submit it to the court where your housing case is filed.
3. Can I get help filling out the court fee waiver form?
   Yes. Free tenant legal aid services and most court clerk offices can answer questions. See the "Need Help?" section below.
4. What if my fee waiver request is denied?
   You have the right to ask the judge to reconsider or appeal. Contact the clerk’s office or legal aid for guidance on next steps.
5. Does a court fee waiver cover all costs in my housing case?
   It usually covers filing fees, service fees, and other standard costs, but doesn’t always include everything (such as legal representation fees).

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maine Judicial Branch Self-Help: Guides and forms for housing cases and court fee waivers
• Pine Tree Legal Assistance: Free legal help for Maine renters with housing issues or fee waiver applications
• Maine District Court Finder: Find your local courthouse and contact the clerk for assistance
• Maine Revised Statutes, Title 14, Chapter 709: Forcible Entry and Detainer: Key laws on eviction procedures
• Maine Revised Statutes, Title 14, Chapter 710: Tenancies and Rents

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1. Maine Revised Statutes, Title 14, Chapter 709: Forcible Entry and Detainer; Chapter 710: Tenancies and Rents

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