Rule 142.Security for Costs
Last amended January 1, 1988 · Last verified June 28, 2026
In one sentenceRule 142 has the clerk require the plaintiff's fees before issuing any process, unless the plaintiff proceeds under Rule 145.
Full Text of Rule 142
The clerk shall require from the plaintiff fees for services rendered before issuing any process unless filing is requested pursuant to Rule 145 of these rules.
End
Plain-English Summary
Rule 142 puts costs up front. The clerk requires from the plaintiff the fees for services rendered before issuing any process — unless the plaintiff requests to proceed under Rule 145, the rule for those who cannot afford court costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you pay fees before the clerk issues process in Texas?
Yes, under Rule 142 — unless you proceed under Rule 145 with a Statement of Inability to Afford Payment of Court Costs.
Which fees does Rule 142 require before process issues?
The fees for the services the clerk renders in getting process out. Rule 142 requires payment before process issues, not after.
How does a plaintiff avoid paying fees up front under Rule 142?
By filing under Rule 145 — a Statement of Inability to Afford Payment of Court Costs — which lets the clerk proceed without prepayment.
Source & verification. Rule text and the official Notes and Comments are reproduced verbatim from the
Texas Rules of Civil Procedure (Tex. R. Civ. P. 142), published by the Texas Judicial Branch (txcourts.gov).
Promulgated by the Supreme Court of Texas. The plain-English summary is original and draws on official sources. Last verified June 28, 2026. ·
Official source
Also known as: security for costsprepayment of feesclerk fees before process issuespaying court fees up frontTRCP 142