How to Get a Court Fee Waiver for Michigan Housing Cases

If you are facing a housing dispute, eviction, or need to file a case in a Michigan court but cannot afford the court fees, there is help available. Renters in Michigan may qualify for a court fee waiver, which allows you to proceed without paying certain court costs. This article provides a clear, step-by-step guide to getting a fee waiver for housing cases in Michigan, including links to official forms and legal resources.

Understanding Court Fee Waivers in Michigan

A court fee waiver is an order from the court that allows someone who cannot afford court filing fees to have those costs reduced or removed. This is particularly important for renters dealing with issues like eviction, security deposit disputes, or rent increase challenges, as fees can be a barrier to justice.

Who Can Apply for a Fee Waiver?

• You receive public assistance (such as SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, or TANF)
• Your income is below a certain level (based on federal poverty guidelines)
• You cannot afford to pay the court fee without hardship

If you meet any of these conditions, you can ask the Michigan court to waive your filing and service fees.

How to Apply: Forms and Steps

The Michigan courts handle housing cases, such as landlord-tenant disputes and evictions, at the district court level. The Michigan Courts system oversees these cases.

Official Fee Waiver Form

• Form Name: Fee Waiver Request
• Form Number: SCAO Approved Form MC 20
• When to Use: Use this form if you cannot afford court fees in your eviction, rent dispute, or any other housing case. File it at the same time you start your court case or soon after you are notified of a required fee.
• Where to Get the Form: Download the official Fee Waiver Request form (MC 20)

Example: If you are responding to an eviction notice and need to file an answer with the court but can't afford the filing fee, you would complete and submit the MC 20 Fee Waiver Request form together with your court documents.

What Happens After You File?

• The court will review your request, usually within a few days.
• You may be asked to provide proof of income or a benefits statement.
• If granted, your fees may be fully or partially waived.
• If denied, you will receive an explanation and may have the right to appeal.

Remember, the waiver only covers court costs. Other costs (such as service fees for a process server) might not be included unless specifically approved.

Your Rights Under Michigan Law

Michigan’s main law covering landlord-tenant rights is the Truth in Renting Act.¹ Court procedures in housing cases are covered by the Michigan Court Rules for District Courts.

What If I Have Already Paid the Fee?

If you discover you qualify for a fee waiver after paying, you can still submit Form MC 20 and ask for a refund. Attach proof of payment and your reason for delay.

Action Steps for Renters

• Download and complete the Fee Waiver Request (MC 20)
• File it with the district court where your housing case is being heard
• Attach proof of income or benefits if possible
• Wait for the judge's decision — look for a mailed notification or court call

Getting a court fee waiver can make pursuing your housing rights in Michigan much more accessible.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who decides if my court fee waiver is approved in Michigan housing cases?
   A judge or authorized court official in the district court where your case is filed will review your form and make a decision based on the information you provide.
2. Do I need a lawyer to file for a court fee waiver?
   No, you do not need a lawyer. The process is designed so anyone can apply, and court staff or legal aid offices can help if you have questions.
3. Can my landlord object to my fee waiver request?
   Generally, the landlord is not involved in the fee waiver decision. The court reviews your financial situation confidentially.
4. Does a fee waiver affect the outcome of my housing case?
   No, the waiver only affects your payment of court costs; it does not impact the judge's decision on your housing or eviction dispute.
5. Can I appeal if my fee waiver request is denied?
   Yes, you may ask the judge to reconsider or file an appeal following court procedures if you are denied a waiver.

Key Takeaways

• Michigan renters unable to afford court fees in housing cases can apply for a waiver using Form MC 20.
• The process is accessible and does not require a lawyer.
• Acting quickly and providing proof of income increases your chance of approval.

If you’re struggling with housing disputes, knowing your rights and how to obtain a court fee waiver can make a big difference.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Michigan District Courts: Landlord-Tenant Information — Guidance on housing cases and district court contacts
• Michigan Legal Help — Free legal self-help and toolkits for renters
• Eviction Help Center — Step-by-step resources for renters facing eviction
• Michigan Department of Health & Human Services — Assistance programs that support income requirements
• Contact your local district court clerk for fee waiver and filing questions (find locations via the Michigan Courts portal).

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1. Truth in Renting Act (Act 348 of 1972), State of Michigan Legislature
2. District Court Landlord-Tenant Information, Michigan Courts
3. Fee Waiver Request (MC 20) Official Form, Michigan Courts

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