Name change fee waiver guide

Many courts offer fee waiver forms for people who cannot afford filing fees. This guide explains what fee waivers may cover, how to apply, and provides examples from specific states.

What fees may be involved in a name change?

Name change costs can include court filing fees (typically $150–$470), newspaper publication fees (if required, typically $50–$300+), certified copy fees, and other administrative costs. Fee waivers primarily address court filing fees.

Fee waiver examples by state

California — FW-001

File form FW-001 (Request to Waive Court Fees) with your petition. The court will review your income and expenses to determine eligibility.

Illinois — FW-CIV

File the FW-CIV Application for Waiver of Court Fees. All Illinois courts must accept this statewide form.

New York — Poor Person's Relief (UCS-FW1)

File form UCS-FW1 to apply for a fee waiver. If granted, your filing fees may be waived.

Texas — Statement of Inability

File a Statement of Inability to Afford Payment of Court Costs, available as a bilingual form from the Texas Judicial Branch.

What fee waivers may not cover

Newspaper publication costs (if required by your court)
Certified copy fees for your court order
DMV or agency update fees
Birth certificate amendment fees
Attorney fees (if you choose to hire one)

Frequently asked questions

What is a fee waiver for a name change?

A fee waiver (sometimes called a fee waiver application, affidavit of indigency, or statement of inability to afford) is a court form that asks the court to waive or reduce filing fees because you cannot afford them. If approved, you may not have to pay the court filing fee.

Who qualifies for a fee waiver?

Qualification criteria vary by state and court, but generally you may qualify if you receive public benefits, have a very low income, or can demonstrate that paying the fee would be a significant hardship. Check with your local court for specific eligibility requirements.

What fees might a fee waiver cover?

Fee waivers typically cover court filing fees. They may or may not cover additional costs like publication fees, certified copy fees, or other administrative costs. The scope of the waiver depends on the state and the specific court order.

How do I apply for a fee waiver in California?

In California, you can file form FW-001 (Request to Waive Court Fees) along with your name change petition. The court will review your application and determine whether you qualify for a full or partial fee waiver.

How do I apply for a fee waiver in Illinois?

In Illinois, you can file the FW-CIV Application for Waiver of Court Fees along with your name change petition. All Illinois courts must accept this statewide form.

Does a fee waiver cover newspaper publication costs?

Typically no. Fee waivers generally cover court filing fees but not the cost of newspaper publication. However, some courts may have separate programs or exceptions. Ask your court clerk about publication cost assistance.

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NameRight is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. We provide self-help information, document preparation tools, and public court process guidance based on publicly available information. Court procedures and eligibility rules can change, and your situation may require advice from a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction. Full legal disclaimer