Become familiar with applicable Local Rules and the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure;
Review the Eastern Washington Pro Se Packet and complete the appropriate forms for filing with the court; or
If alternate or additional forms are required, based upon the action you intend to file (i.e. EEO Complaint or Social Security Complaint), complete the appropriate Pro Se form as provided in the forms table on the U.S. Court's website.

Click here for more information about the Federal Courts and for a Glossary of Legal Terms.

Unless you are authorized by the court, all documents submitted for filing must be in paper form.  To obtain court authorization for electronic filing, you may file a motion to obtain Electronic Case Filing Authorization using the motion form prescribed by the Clerk's Office.   Complete the form, sign it, and file it in paper with the Clerk's Office.   

Once the court has approved your motion, you will be able to register for electronic filing.   Pro Se Registration Form

PACER Registration: You are also required to request CM/ECF access via pacer.gov. Review the Pro Se Registration Instructions for step-by-step guidance. You will receive email confirmation of your registration when it is processed.

Notice Only Option (No Filing)

Self-represented litigants who wish to receive service of documents and notice of electronic filings by e-mail may do so by filling out a waiver (for each case you are participating in) and register for electronic service.  You will continue to file documents in paper form.   Pro Se Registration Form

The Clerk's Office offers ECF filing training upon request.  Contact the ECF Help Desk toll-free at 1-866-236-5100 to schedule a training session.

Click here for more information about ECF and to read our ECF Administrative Procedures for Civil Cases.