Short answer
Answering usually doesn't require the same fee as filing a lawsuit, but courts may charge fees for some filings, such as a jury demand. If you can't afford court costs, you can file a Statement of Inability to Afford Payment of Court Costs.
Helpful next
Sources
- Texas Rules of Civil Procedure (Texas Judicial Branch)
- TexasLawHelp.org (free legal information for Texans)
Updated November 2026. General information about Texas law, not legal advice for your case. Laws and court rules change; we review these answers regularly.