1996 Chevy Lumina fuel filter or fuel pump?

For the last couple months my car will not start on the first try. Now it takes 4 times before it will start. After it starts it runs fine. Does this sound like a fuel filter problem? I can't get the fuel filter off as the nut is rusted on, so I have to bring the car to a garage to have it lifted so the filter can be removed. My problem is, of course, I cannot afford to have both the fuel filter and fuel pump replaced. I want to start with the cheapest(fuel filter) but if I spend the $80 for that and the car still doesn't start--then I'm out $80 for nothing.
What do you think?
Thank you for your time!
Diane