It is often called Help with Fees. Most court and tribunal fees are less than £1,420, so most people can have up to £4,250 in savings.
Quick facts
- Savings limit
- £4,250 for most fees
- Bigger fees
- Up to £16,000 of savings
- Aged 66 or over
- Up to £16,000, any fee
- Already paid
- You can ask for money back
The savings limit
You must have less than the maximum amount of savings to be eligible. If you have a partner, you must include their savings too.
If you and your partner are 65 or younger, the maximum amount of savings you can have depends on how much the court or tribunal fee is. For example, you can have up to £4,250 in savings if your fee is £1,420 or less, and up to £16,000 in savings if your fee is over £7,000.
If you or your partner are 66 or older, you can have up to £16,000 in savings, whatever your fee is.
Benefits and income
Whether you’re eligible depends on which benefits you get and your income. Getting a benefit such as Universal Credit can make it simpler, and people on low incomes can get full or partial help.
If you have already paid
If you’ve already paid the fee, you can apply to get money back if you were eligible for help when you paid it.
Common questions
Can I get help paying court fees?
Yes, if your savings are under the limit and you get certain benefits or have a low income.
What is the savings limit?
Up to £4,250 for fees of £1,420 or less, rising to £16,000 for fees over £7,000. If you or your partner are 66 or older, £16,000 whatever the fee.
Can I get money back if I already paid?
Yes, if you were eligible for help when you paid it.