What is an Affidavit of Indigency and how do I get one?
Last updated: 2026-07-11 · Educational content; not legal advice.
Short answer
An Affidavit of Indigency is a sworn statement that your income and property fall within the limits that qualify you as an indigent — used to obtain free PAO counsel and to ask a court to exempt you from filing and docket fees as an indigent litigant under Rule 141 and Rule 3, Section 21 of the Rules of Court. You state your monthly income, your dependents, and that you do not own real property beyond the allowed threshold, then swear to it before a notary public or an authorized officer. LabanPH can generate a draft for you to sign.
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Frequently asked
What is the Affidavit of Indigency used for?
Two main things: to support your application for a free PAO lawyer, and to ask a court to let you sue as an indigent litigant, exempt from docket and filing fees under Rule 141 and Rule 3, Section 21.
Where do I have it notarized?
Before a notary public, or before an authorized officer such as the clerk of court; PAO and some barangays also assist. The affidavit must be sworn — an unsworn statement will not be accepted for fee exemption.
What should the affidavit state?
Your identity, your monthly income and its source, the number of people who depend on you, and that you do not own real property above the allowed assessed value. Attach proof where you can (payslip, barangay certificate).
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