In the fall of 2024, the Arizona Department of Child Safety (DCS) mailed letters to parents who once had an open dependency and/or severance case.
Did you receive a letter? Visit the DCS letter page for more information.
Need to make court payment?
See what options are available on the Making a Court Payment page.
What is a fee waiver?
A fee waiver may be issued for those that can prove that any court cost would be an extraordinary expense to their livelihood.
What is a fee deferral?
A fee deferral is when you either:
1
Get approval to delay paying what you owe, or
2
Create a payment plan with the court.
The court may waive court fees if you have documents that show:
- You are receiving TANF or food stamp benefits, OR
- Your gross income is insufficient or barely sufficient to meet essentials of life (e.g., the gross income is less than 150% of the current poverty level; or the gross income is sufficient but extraordinary expenses reduce the gross income to less than 150% of the current poverty level), OR
- You have qualified and are represented by a non-profit legal aid organization
The court may grant a monthly payment plan if you show documents that prove:
- Your gross income is between 150% and 175% of the current poverty level, OR
- Your gross income is between 175% and 225% of the current poverty level, and 25% is paid at the time of filing, and the balance is paid on a payment plan, OR
- There is good cause, if your gross income of more than 225% of the current poverty level
Poverty Guidelines
The Federal Poverty Guidelines help the court decide if you are eligible for a fee waiver or deferral. If your income equals or falls below 150% of the poverty level, you are eligible. For those with incomes higher than 150% of the poverty level, you will have to meet other requirements to qualify.