How to Get a Court Fee Waiver in Minnesota Housing Disputes

Many renters in Minnesota worry about the costs of going to court if they're facing eviction, repair disputes, or other housing problems. Filing a case or responding to eviction papers can come with fees, but people with limited income might not have to pay. In Minnesota, you can ask the court for a fee waiver so you can participate fully in your housing case, even if you can't afford the filing costs.

Understanding Court Fee Waivers in Minnesota

The Minnesota Judicial Branch allows people with financial hardship to request a fee waiver—also known as an “In Forma Pauperis” (IFP) waiver. If approved, you may not have to pay court filing fees, sheriff service fees, or certain copying costs related to your housing dispute.

Who Can Qualify for a Fee Waiver?

You may qualify for a court fee waiver if you:

• Receive public assistance (like MFIP, food support/SNAP, General Assistance, or Medical Assistance)
• Have income below 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines
• Are unable to pay the fees without using money you need for living expenses

The court will ask for proof, so have documents ready (benefit letters, pay stubs, or tax returns).

What Types of Housing Cases Are Covered?

• Eviction actions (also called “unlawful detainer” proceedings)
• Rent escrow cases (asking the court to order repairs)
• Damage and deposit disputes

Fee waivers can be used for any matter that would otherwise require you to pay to access the housing courts in Minnesota.

Official Forms and How to Use Them

• In Forma Pauperis (IFP) Application (Form IFP102)
  In Forma Pauperis (IFP) Application – Form IFP102
  How and when to use it: Use this form to request a waiver of court fees in your eviction, repair, or other housing case. For example, if you've received an eviction notice and want to file your answer or present a counterclaim without paying filing fees, submit this form with your other court documents.
• Financial Statement (Form IFP101)
  Financial Statement Form IFP101
  How and when to use it: Sometimes the court may ask for more detailed financial information. If requested, fill out this form to show your income, expenses, and assets.

Both forms and more information can be found on the Minnesota Judicial Branch official forms page.

How to Apply for a Court Fee Waiver: Step-by-Step

The process for Minnesota renters is straightforward. You don’t need a lawyer to complete a fee waiver request.

1. Get the IFP Application (Form IFP102) from the Minnesota Judicial Branch website.
2. Complete the form honestly, listing your income, household members, and public assistance (if any).
3. Attach proof of your income or assistance (such as a SNAP statement or pay stub).
4. File the form along with your housing court papers (like an eviction answer or repair petition) at the court office.
5. Wait for the judge to review your form—sometimes you may need to answer questions or provide more paperwork.
6. If approved, the court will waive qualifying fees so you can proceed without payment.

Which Court Handles Housing Cases?

In Minnesota, housing disputes—including eviction, rent escrow, and deposits—are typically resolved in District Court. Each county’s District Court is part of the Minnesota Judicial Branch.

Relevant Tenant Protection Law

All renters in Minnesota are protected under the Minnesota Statutes Chapter 504B – Landlord and Tenant, which spells out your rights in eviction, repairs, and deposit disputes.¹

FAQ: Court Fee Waivers for Minnesota Renters

1. Do I have to pay to respond to an eviction case if I can't afford it?
   No. You can request a court fee waiver if you meet the income qualifications. File the IFP Application (Form IFP102) before or with your answer.
2. How long does it take to find out if my IFP request is approved?
   Usually, the judge reviews requests quickly—often on the same day. Some cases may take several days if the court needs more information.
3. What happens if my request is denied?
   If your fee waiver is denied, you can still ask the judge to reconsider by explaining your situation or providing additional financial documents.
4. Does a court fee waiver also cancel rent or stop eviction?
   No. A fee waiver only covers court fees. You must still follow court procedures to defend yourself, pay rent, or resolve issues with your landlord.
5. Can undocumented renters apply for a court fee waiver in Minnesota?
   Yes. Immigration status does not affect your right to request a fee waiver or participate in housing court cases.

Conclusion: What Minnesota Renters Should Remember

• If you can't afford court filing fees, you may qualify for a fee waiver using simple forms provided by the Minnesota Judicial Branch.
• File your IFP Application (Form IFP102) early to avoid delays in your housing case.
• For any doubts, you can get free help from court self-help centers or legal aid agencies.

Knowing your rights can ensure you aren't kept out of court for financial reasons. You have options and support available as a Minnesota renter.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Minnesota Judicial Branch Self-Help Centers: Free court forms, guides, and live chat
• LawHelp MN: Fee Waiver (IFP) Info: Step-by-step guides
• Find free or low-cost legal help in Minnesota
• Minnesota Attorney General's Office: Tenant resources

---

1. Minnesota Statutes Chapter 504B – Landlord and Tenant
2. Minnesota Judicial Branch

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