Low earners with substantial savings will no longer be exempt from civil court and tribunal fees under reforms that will come into effect on Monday 7 October.

Plans for a single system of fee remission have been given the go-ahead and will be implemented by a negative statutory instrument, the justice minister has told parliament.

Fee remissions were previously automatic for people on state benefits or with incomes below the threshold.

The changes will also introduce a single income test, which will require a greater contribution from fee-payers.

Helen Grant, under-secretary of state for justice and equalities, said in a written ministerial statement: ‘Implementation of these reforms will mean that the taxpayer contribution towards fee remissions will be better targeted towards those who need it most. They will also ensure that the system of remissions is fair, easy to use and consistent across courts and tribunals.’

However, she said some amendments to the May consultation have been made following concerns about the impact of the test on pensioners, and to make clearer the types of capital that will be considered.