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PRACTICAL GUIDANCE

Help with Fees and EX160: where to start

Find the official eligibility guidance, application route and information needed for help paying a court or tribunal fee.

Court Guide · Sources checked 9 September 2026

Check the fee and the scheme

Help with Fees can reduce or remove an eligible court or tribunal fee depending on the current rules and the applicant's financial circumstances. It is different from legal aid for advice or representation. Some fees and jurisdictions use different arrangements.

Use the current official assessment

The GOV.UK service and EX160 guidance explain the income, savings, benefits and partner information required. Use the current instructions for the application date. This site does not reproduce the full eligibility calculation or collect financial information.

Coordinate it with the court application

Check how and when the Help with Fees application or reference must be provided with the underlying form. Keep the reference and any correspondence together. If the court requests further information, follow the deadline in that request.

Information to have ready

  • The fee or court form you need help with.
  • Your case reference, if one already exists.
  • The financial information specified by the official guidance.
  • The date of the application or fee payment and any instructions from the court.

Related information

Official sources and further reading

General practical information, not advice on your individual case. Follow your court’s instructions and speak with a qualified adviser about legal decisions.