Small Claims Court in All 50 States and DC
Small claims court is the fast, low-cost court for money disputes — unpaid debts, security deposits, property damage, bad repairs. You usually don't need a lawyer. Here are the real rules in all 50 states and DC, each linked to the court rule or statute.
Choose your state
- Alabama
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- District of Columbia
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
How to file a small claims case (any state)
- Make sure your claim fits: it must be for money (usually), under your state's dollar limit, and within the time limit for suing (statute of limitations).
- Ask the other side to pay first, in writing. Some states require a demand before you file, and a letter is useful evidence either way.
- Find the right court: usually the county or district where the defendant lives or does business, or where the problem happened.
- Fill out the court's small claims form (often online) and pay the filing fee — or ask for a fee waiver if you can't afford it.
- Have the defendant served with the papers by a method your state allows (sheriff, certified mail by the clerk, or a process server).
- Prepare for the hearing: bring the contract or lease, photos, receipts, texts and emails, and any witnesses. Organize them in date order.
- Go to the hearing and explain your case briefly. The judge or magistrate usually decides the same day or by mail.
- If you win and they don't pay, use your state's collection tools (wage garnishment, bank levy, property lien).
Common small claims questions, answered for every state
Limits, fees and lawyers by state
| State | Small claims limit | Filing fee | Are lawyers allowed? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $6,000, exclusive of interest and costs. Ala. Code § 12-12-31(a); Escambia County Circuit Clerk small claims page | Fees are set by claim amount. Example (Escambia County district court schedule): one plaintiff/one defendant with certified-mail service is $80 (claims up to $1,500), $154 (up to $3,000) or $243 (up to $6,000), plus certified mail cost; sheriff or process-server service is $110, $184 or $273. A filer who cannot afford the fee may ask to proceed on an Affidavit of Substantial Hardship (form C-10-Civil). Escambia County Civil Filing Fees for SM; Alacourt eForms small claims page | Yes. Parties may appear with or without an attorney, and the court must make reasonable accommodation for parties who are not represented. Ala. Small Claims Rules A and J |
| Alaska | $10,000. A party with a larger claim may waive the excess in writing and proceed in small claims. AS 22.15.040; Alaska Dist. Ct. Civ. R. 8(b) and note | $50 for claims of $2,500 or less; $100 for claims over $2,500. A person who cannot afford the fee may request an exemption (fee waiver). Alaska Admin. R. 9(c)(2); Admin. R. 10 | Yes. Any party may be represented by an attorney or legal intern, but a lawyer is not required. A corporation or other organization may be represented by an officer or employee authorized in writing. Alaska Dist. Ct. Civ. R. 15(a)-(b); Alaska Court System FAQ |
| Arizona | $5,000, exclusive of interest and costs. A.R.S. § 22-503(A) | Statewide base fees: $30 to file a small claims complaint, $18 to file an answer, and $8 for service by mail. Local courts may add fees. A fee waiver or deferral can be requested. A.R.S. § 22-522; Arizona Justice Court Filing Fees (effective Dec. 28, 2024) | Generally no. Attorneys may not appear or take part in a small claims case unless all parties agree in writing before the hearing; an attorney may represent himself or herself. Individuals represent themselves, and businesses appear through an owner, officer or authorized full-time employee. A.R.S. § 22-512 |
| Arkansas | $5,000 (contracts, damage to personal property and recovery of personal property). Regular district court civil jurisdiction goes up to $25,000. Ark. Sup. Ct. Admin. Order No. 18; Arkansas Judiciary District Courts page | Typically $30 to $65, paid to the clerk at filing; the plaintiff also pays service costs. A winning plaintiff can ask the court to order the defendant to repay filing and service costs. Arkansas Attorney General, Guide to Small Claims Court | No. Small claims is a forum for people to represent themselves, without attorneys and under relaxed rules of procedure. Arkansas Judiciary District Courts page; Arkansas Attorney General, Guide to Small Claims Court |
| California | $12,500 for a natural person (including a sole proprietor); $6,250 for a business or public entity. No one may file more than two small claims cases for over $2,500 each in a calendar year. Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 116.110 et seq.; Judicial Council form SC-100-INFO (Rev. Jan. 1, 2024) | $30 for claims up to $1,500; $50 for over $1,500 up to $5,000; $75 for over $5,000 up to $12,500; $100 if you have filed more than 12 small claims in the past 12 months. Fee waivers are available for people on public benefits, below an income level, or who cannot pay and meet basic needs. California Courts Self-Help Guide, File your small claims forms | No. You may get advice from a lawyer before court, but a lawyer cannot represent either party at the small claims trial. Lawyers are generally allowed after judgment and on appeal. Judicial Council form SC-100-INFO; California Courts Self-Help Guide |
| Colorado | $7,500, exclusive of interest and costs (including civil penalties). The same limit applies to replevin, contract specific-performance or rescission, restrictive covenant and HOA assessment actions. A claim larger than $7,500 cannot be split; a plaintiff who sues for more can collect only $7,500. C.R.S. § 13-6-403(1); Colorado Judicial Branch, Opening a Case (small claims) | Claim: $31 (claims of $500 or less) or $55 (over $500). Response: $26 or $41. Response with counterclaim: $31 or $46. Fees may be waived (JDF 205/206), and people on certain public assistance may qualify automatically (JDF 209). JDF 248, Guide to Small Claims (rev. Dec. 14, 2023) | Generally no. Individuals represent themselves and businesses appear through an officer, partner, member or full-time employee; an attorney may appear only in those roles, pro se, or as allowed by Supreme Court rule. If an attorney does appear, the other side may also use a lawyer. In security deposit and landlord-tenant damage cases, a property manager who handled the deposit, rent or lease may represent the owner. C.R.S. § 13-6-407(2), (4) |
| Connecticut | $5,000 for money damages. Home improvement contract claims may be up to $15,000, and a tenant's security deposit suit may recover up to twice the deposit. Connecticut Judicial Branch Small Claims page and Small Claims FAQ | $95 entry (filing) fee. A counterclaim is $95, a motion to transfer to the regular docket is $125, and each application for execution is $105. A winning plaintiff may have the entry fee and service costs added to the judgment. Connecticut Judicial Branch Small Claims FAQ | You do not need an attorney, but parties may use one. Connecticut Judicial Branch Small Claims FAQ |
| Delaware | $25,000. The Justice of the Peace Court hears debt, trespass (property damage only), replevin, security deposit and landlord-tenant cases and may not award more than $25,000; a plaintiff may sue for a larger claim by giving up the excess. Justice of the Peace Court Jurisdiction page; Starting a Civil Action in JP Court | Debt complaint: $35 (under $1,000), $40 ($1,000 to $5,000), $45 (over $5,000). Service by the court is included in the filing fee; an alias (second service attempt) is $20. A fee waiver is available by notarized application (Civil Form 49). 10 Del. C. § 9801; JP Court Civil Fees; Starting a Civil Action in JP Court | Yes. Attorneys may appear, but an individual may appear without one, and entities may use a certified non-attorney representative. JP Court Civil page |
| District of Columbia | $10,000, exclusive of interest, attorney fees, protest fees and costs, for actions seeking only money. Actions affecting an interest in real property (including evictions) cannot be brought in the Small Claims Branch. D.C. Code § 11-1321 | Fees are set by the court. A judge may waive prepayment of costs, or costs that accrue during the case, if the plaintiff shows by sworn statement or other evidence that they cannot pay. D.C. Code § 16-3903 | Not verified yet |
| Florida | $8,000, exclusive of costs, interest and attorneys' fees, for civil actions demanding money or property. Fla. Sm. Cl. R. 7.010(b) (July 1, 2026 edition) | Set by statute by claim amount: $50 (under $100), $75 ($100 to $500), $170 (over $500 to $2,500), $295 (over $2,500). Postal charges for clerk mail service are paid by the party requesting it. Fla. Stat. § 34.041(1)(a) (2025) | Yes. Parties may appear personally or through an attorney. A party represented by an attorney is subject to discovery, and a non-attorney may not represent a business on appeal. Fla. Sm. Cl. R. 7.020(b), 7.090(a), 7.230(b) |
| Georgia | $15,000 for civil claims in Magistrate Court. Dispossessory (eviction) cases are also heard in Magistrate Court. O.C.G.A. § 15-10-2; Georgia Council of Magistrate Court Clerks page | The plaintiff pays a filing deposit set by local court rule (the statute caps the base deposit at $22) plus the actual cost of serving each defendant (not more than the sheriff's fee). A writ of fieri facias (fi. fa.) costs $4. O.C.G.A. § 15-10-80 | Yes, but an attorney is not required; self-represented (pro se) parties may present or defend their cases. Georgia Council of Magistrate Court Clerks page |
| Hawaii | $5,000 for money claims. A tenant's claim for return of a residential security deposit has no dollar limit. HRS § 633-27(a); Hawaii State Judiciary, Small Claims Court Q&A | $35. The filing fee can be added to the judgment if you win. Hawaii State Judiciary, Small Claims Court Q&A | Yes in most cases, though attorney's fees generally cannot be awarded. In security deposit disputes, attorneys cannot appear for the landlord or the tenant (except an attorney who is the landlord or tenant representing himself or herself). Hawaii State Judiciary, Small Claims Court Q&A |
| Idaho | $15,000 for recovery of money or personal property. Small claims cannot award punitive damages or damages for pain and suffering. Idaho Code § 1-2301 (am. 2026, ch. 196) | $69 to file a small claim, plus service costs; a change of venue is $29. By statute the court collects a $33 small claims fee in advance on each claim, in addition to service costs. Idaho Code § 1-2303(3); Idaho Court Assistance Office, Small Claims forms page | No. Attorneys may not appear for a party at a small claims trial, pretrial matter or post-trial motion, but they may advise parties and help prepare documents, and they may appear in proceedings to enforce a judgment. An attorney may bring his or her own claim as a party. Idaho Code § 1-2307 |
| Illinois | $10,000, exclusive of interest and costs, for civil actions based on tort or contract for money only. Small claims judges can award money only; they cannot order someone to do or stop doing something or to return property. Ill. Sup. Ct. R. 281; Illinois Supreme Court approved form instructions SC-I 1802.4 (06/24) | A filing fee is charged by the circuit clerk, plus service costs; amounts vary by county. A person who cannot afford the fees may file an Application for Waiver of Court Fees for free or reduced-cost filing. Ill. Sup. Ct. R. 282(a); Illinois Supreme Court approved form instructions SC-I 1802.4 | Yes. Parties may appear with or without a lawyer; corporations must use a lawyer to bring a claim. Ill. Sup. Ct. R. 282(b); Illinois Supreme Court approved form instructions SC-I 1802.4 |
| Indiana | $10,000 (claims filed on or after July 1, 2021). Landlord-tenant disputes qualify if the rent due at filing is $10,000 or less. A plaintiff who files in small claims gives up any amount over the limit. IC 33-29-2-4; Indiana Small Claims Manual (2026, updated 12/23/2025); S.C. 2(A)(2) | A filing fee must be paid when the notice of claim is filed, unless the court enters an order waiving it. Fees paid for filing and service are not refunded if the claim is dismissed. Ind. Small Claims Rule 2(A)(1); Indiana Small Claims Manual | Yes. A person may appear alone or with a lawyer. Sole proprietorships, partnerships, corporations, LLCs, LLPs and trusts may appear through a lawyer, owner, or a designated full-time employee (or trustee), who must file a certificate of compliance and affidavit in each case; using a designated employee waives any claim over the small claims limit. Ind. Small Claims Rule 8(C) |
| Iowa | $6,500, exclusive of interest and costs, for money judgments (actions commenced on or after July 1, 2018). The same limit applies to replevin. Small claims also has concurrent jurisdiction over forcible entry and detainer (eviction) actions on most grounds. Iowa Code § 631.1(1)(b), (2), (3) (Iowa Code 2026) | $115 filing and docketing fee for fees paid on or after July 1, 2026 (raised from $95 by 2026 Iowa Acts ch. 1192, H.F. 2770); the Iowa Judicial Branch also lists $115 to start a case. Mailing the original notice and personal service by a peace officer may cost extra. There is no fee to file an answer. Iowa Code § 631.6, as amended by 2026 Iowa Acts ch. 1192 (H.F. 2770); Iowa Judicial Branch, Small Claims | Yes. Any party may be represented by an attorney, but an attorney is not required. Iowa Code §§ 631.5(1), 631.14(3); Iowa Judicial Branch, Small Claims |
| Kansas | $10,000, exclusive of interest, costs and any damages awarded under K.S.A. 60-2610, for recovery of money or personal property. K.S.A. 61-2703(a) | Docket fee of $35 for claims of $500 or less and $55 for claims over $500; this is the only cost required to file. A judge may waive the fee for good cause. K.S.A. 61-2704 | Generally no. No party may be represented by an attorney before judgment; a party may appear through a full-time employee, officer or other non-attorney representative. If any party uses a representative who is or was an attorney, or an attorney represents himself or herself, all other parties may have an attorney, and the court must grant one reasonable continuance to hire counsel. K.S.A. 61-2707; K.S.A. 61-2714 |
| Kentucky | $2,500, exclusive of interest and costs, for money, damages or the value of personal property. The division can also hear suits to cancel (disaffirm, avoid or rescind) a contract for goods or services of $2,500 or less. Libel, slander, alienation of affections, malicious prosecution and abuse of process cases are excluded. KRS 24A.230 | A filing fee is charged when the complaint (form AOC-175) is filed, in person or by eFiling; ask the circuit court clerk for the current amount. There is no fee for a counterclaim of $2,500 or less. A Waiver of Costs and Fees guided interview is offered for people who cannot afford the fee. Small Claims Handbook (P-6); KCOJ Self-Help Portal | Yes. Parties may represent themselves or hire an attorney. Small Claims Handbook (P-6), 'Small Claims Division' |
| Louisiana | $5,000 in justice of the peace courts and in city-court small claims divisions, not counting interest, court costs, attorney fees or penalties. A claim may not be split to get under the limit. La. C.C.P. art. 4911; La. R.S. 13:5202(A) | Justice of the peace court: generally about $130 in court costs to file a new case, plus $20 for each additional defendant; other costs may apply (full list in R.S. 13:2590). City-court small claims division: $35 per defendant by statute, up to $20 per additional service or subpoena. Costs may be waived for a party who cannot pay under C.C.P. arts. 5181-5188. AG Guide to Louisiana Justice of the Peace Courts; La. R.S. 13:5205 | Yes. Parties may appear without a lawyer or hire one. In a city-court small claims division, a local court rule may limit the role of attorneys. AG Guide to Louisiana Justice of the Peace Courts; La. R.S. 13:5208(A) |
| Maine | $10,000, not counting interest and costs (effective January 1, 2026). Actions involving title to real estate are not small claims. 14 M.R.S. § 7482 | $70 to file a small claims action (includes a $15 mediation fee). Optional service by the clerk costs $15 per party. A small claims disclosure (collection) hearing costs $30 per defendant. Fees can be waived by filing an Application to Proceed without Payment of Fees (CV-067). Administrative Order JB-05-26 (A. 3-26), effective March 9, 2026 | Yes. Parties often represent themselves but may hire an attorney. A spouse, relative or friend who is not a party may not assist at the hearing. A Guide to Small Claims Cases (PUB-006, January 2026) |
| Maryland | $5,000, not counting interest, costs and recoverable attorney's fees. Small claims are for money only, not return of property or performance of a service. The District Court also has exclusive jurisdiction over landlord-tenant actions under Real Property §§ 8-401 and 8-402 where the rent claimed is $5,000 or less. Md. Code, Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 4-405 | $44 for a new small claims contract or tort complaint (includes surcharges). A counterclaim, cross claim or third-party claim costs $18. Service is extra: $20 per defendant if mailed by the clerk, or $60 per defendant if served by the sheriff or constable. Fee waivers are available. District Court of Maryland Cost Schedule (DCA-109, Rev. 03/2026) | Yes. A lawyer is not required, but either side may hire one at its own cost. Maryland Judiciary, Small Claims self-help page |
| Massachusetts | $7,000 in debt or damages for contract or tort claims (not slander or libel). There is no limit for property damage caused by a motor vehicle. Cities and towns may claim up to $15,000 (no limit for unpaid personal property taxes). Double or treble damages may be awarded where another law provides for them. G.L. c. 218, § 21 | By statute: $30 for claims of $500 or less, $40 for over $500 up to $2,000, $90 for over $2,000 up to $5,000, and $140 for over $5,000, plus the surcharge under G.L. c. 262, § 4C. Fees and costs may be reduced or eliminated under court rules. G.L. c. 218, § 22 | Not verified yet |
| Michigan | $7,000 for cases seeking recovery of money (since January 1, 2024). MCL 600.8401 | $25 if the claim is $600 or less; $45 for over $600 up to $1,750; $65 for over $1,750. Postage for mailing the affidavit to each defendant is extra, and a personal server receives the same fee and mileage as for other district court service. Writs of execution, attachment or garnishment and debtor discovery subpoenas cost $15. MCL 600.8420 | No. Attorneys may appear only for themselves, and no one other than the plaintiff and defendant may take part, except business and government representatives allowed by statute. Either party may remove the case to the general civil division before trial to use a lawyer. MCL 600.8408; MCL 600.8412 |
| Minnesota | $20,000 in money or property; $4,000 if the claim involves a consumer credit transaction. Excluded: real estate title and boundary disputes, libel or slander, class actions, prejudgment remedies, most injunctions and specific performance, family and probate matters, evictions and medical malpractice. Minn. Stat. § 491A.01, subds. 3a, 4 | $65 from each plaintiff and each defendant when they first file (county law library fees may be added). A person who cannot pay may proceed without fees; if that person wins, the fees are taken from the recovery. Minn. Stat. § 357.022; Minn. Stat. § 491A.02, subd. 3 | Yes. A party may be represented by a Minnesota-licensed lawyer. Minn. Gen. R. Prac. 512 |
| Mississippi | $3,500. Justice court judges hear actions to recover debts, damages or personal property where the principal debt, demand or property value does not exceed $3,500. Miss. Code Ann. § 9-11-9 | Not verified yet | Yes. Parties may be represented by an attorney or may represent themselves; pleadings are signed by the party or, if represented, by the attorney of record. Rules of Justice Court 3, 15(a)-(b) |
| Missouri | $5,000, not counting interest and costs, in tort or contract cases. A plaintiff with a larger claim may still file in small claims but gives up any amount over $5,000, now and in any later case on the same issues. RSMo 482.305; RSMo 482.315 | The plaintiff pays court costs and a deposit to secure costs, set under RSMo 488.010-488.020, plus the cost of service in advance. Small claims forms and clerk assistance are free. RSMo 482.345; RSMo 482.335; RSMo 482.340 | Yes. Parties may bring or defend a claim without a lawyer, and the summons tells the defendant that the case may be defended with or without an attorney. RSMo 482.310; RSMo 482.340 |
| Montana | $7,000, not counting costs, for money or specific personal property, and the defendant must be servable in the county where the case is filed. Mont. Code Ann. § 25-35-502 | $20 for the plaintiff when the sworn complaint is filed; $10 for the defendant when appearing to contest the claim or filing a counterclaim. A party who cannot afford the fees may file a pauper's affidavit. Sheriff's service fees are separate. Mont. Code Ann. §§ 25-35-608, 25-35-604 | Only if all parties are represented by attorneys. A defendant who wants a lawyer (or a jury) can move the case to regular justice's court within 10 days after service. Mont. Code Ann. §§ 25-35-505, 25-35-605 |
| Nebraska | $7,500 (since July 1, 2025), not counting interest and costs, for money, damages or personal property, or to cancel a contract for goods or services of that amount or less. Neb. Rev. Stat. § 25-2802 | $58 total to file a small claims case (the $6.25 statutory fee plus other court costs). Service costs are extra and are paid by the plaintiff; they may be added to the judgment if the plaintiff wins. Nebraska Judicial Branch, Filing Fees and Court Costs; Neb. Rev. Stat. § 25-2804(2) | No. No party may be represented by an attorney in small claims court. Attorneys may participate only after the case is transferred to the regular county court docket, on post-default motions, or on appeal. Neb. Rev. Stat. §§ 25-2803(2), 25-2804(7), 25-2805, 25-2807 |
| Nevada | $10,000, for recovery of money only. A debt owed to one creditor may not be split into several cases to fit under the limit; any excess must be waived. NRS 73.010; JCRCP 88(d) | By claim amount: $45 (up to $1,000), $65 ($1,000.01-$2,500), $85 ($2,500.01-$5,000), $125 ($5,000.01-$7,500), $175 ($7,500.01-$10,000). No fee is charged when a defendant appears in response to the small claims affidavit and order. NRS 4.060(1)(b), (d) | Not verified yet |
| New Hampshire | $10,000 in debt or damages, not counting interest and costs. Actions involving title to real estate are excluded. RSA 503:1, I | The plaintiff pays an entry fee, which is recoverable as a cost if the plaintiff wins, plus a surcharge of $5 for claims of $5,000 or less or $60 for claims over $5,000 (for the mediation and arbitration fund). The clerk pays the postage to mail the notice to the defendant. RSA 503:1, III; RSA 503:4 | Yes. An attorney must file an appearance and give copies to the other parties at least 7 days before the hearing; a party who did not get timely notice may ask for a continuance, which is ordinarily granted. RSA 503:2-a |
| New Jersey | $5,000 for money claims, including a tenant's suit to recover a security deposit of $5,000 or less. Excluded: professional malpractice, child support or alimony, wills and inheritance, and claims for anything other than money. Larger claims up to $20,000 go to the Special Civil Part's regular docket. N.J. Ct. R. 6:1-2(a); NJ Courts, Small Claims Court | $35 for one defendant and $5 for each additional defendant. Service by certified and regular mail is $10 per defendant; personal service by a court officer is $10 plus $12 for each additional defendant. Fees may be waived for people with income at or below 150% of the poverty level and liquid assets of $2,500 or less. NJ Courts, Small Claims Court | Yes, but a lawyer is not required; most people file and present their cases without one. NJ Courts, Small Claims Court |
| New Mexico | $10,000 in magistrate courts and the Bernalillo County Metropolitan Court, for tort, contract and landlord-tenant cases. These courts cannot hear domestic relations, malicious prosecution, libel or slander, land title or boundary disputes, specific performance of land sales, injunctions or extraordinary writs. NMSA 1978, § 35-3-3(A); Metropolitan Court pamphlet SH-101 (rev. 9/1/24) | $77 to file a civil complaint in Metropolitan Court. A jury request adds a $25 non-refundable jury fee and a $75 jury deposit. Sheriffs and private process servers charge their own service fees. Bernalillo County Metropolitan Court, Fees, Costs & Filing; pamphlet SH-101 | Yes. Parties may represent themselves or hire an attorney; some business entities must use an attorney. Metropolitan Court pamphlet SH-101 |
| New York | $10,000 in New York City Civil Court; $5,000 in City Courts outside NYC and in the Nassau and Suffolk District Courts; $3,000 in Town and Village Justice Courts. Interest and costs are not counted. Claims are for money only. NYC Civil Ct. Act § 1801; Uniform City Ct. Act § 1801; Uniform District Ct. Act § 1801; Uniform Justice Ct. Act § 1801 | NYC Civil Court and City Courts: $15 for claims of $1,000 or less and $20 for claims over $1,000. Town and Village Justice Courts: $10 and $15. A defendant's counterclaim costs $5 ($3 in justice courts) plus mailing costs. Commercial claims cost $25 plus mailing costs. NYC Civil Ct. Act § 1803; Uniform City Ct. Act § 1803; Uniform Justice Ct. Act § 1803; NYC Civil Ct. Act § 1803-A | Yes. A corporation may defend through an attorney or through an authorized officer, director or employee. NYC Civil Ct. Act § 1809(2) |
| North Carolina | $10,000, for money, recovery of specific personal property, summary ejectment (eviction), or a combination. The plaintiff asks for assignment to a magistrate by writing 'Small Claim' on the complaint. N.C. Gen. Stat. §§ 7A-210, 7A-213 | $92 in court costs for a case assigned to a magistrate ($80 General Court of Justice fee plus $12 facilities fee); other statutory costs may be added. Sheriff's service is $30 per item of civil process. N.C. Gen. Stat. § 7A-305(a); § 7A-311(a)(1) | Yes, but not required. Parties do not need an attorney at the magistrate trial or on appeal. N.C. Gen. Stat. §§ 7A-222, 7A-228 |
| North Dakota | $15,000. Small claims court hears cases for recovery of money, a mobile home park tenant's civil damages claim under N.D.C.C. 47-10-28(9), or cancellation of an agreement involving material fraud, deception, misrepresentation or false promise, when the agreement's value or the amount claimed does not exceed $15,000. N.D.C.C. 27-08.1-01(1) | $20 to file a small claims action in district court. A filing fee waiver can be requested. N.D.C.C. 27-05.2-03(1)(e) | Parties may appear without a lawyer; the statute does not bar attorneys. The hearing is informal and the judge may conduct their own inquiry. If the defendant removes the case to district court and the plaintiff wins there, the district court must award the plaintiff attorney's fees. N.D.C.C. 27-08.1-03, 27-08.1-04 |
| Ohio | $6,000, exclusive of interest and costs, for civil actions to recover money only. Libel, slander, replevin, malicious prosecution, abuse of process and punitive-damages claims are excluded. Ohio Rev. Code 1925.02 | Each court sets its own small claims filing fee, plus an additional statutory amount; check the local court's cost schedule. Service fees may be charged separately. Ohio Rev. Code 1925.04(A) | Yes. A plaintiff may file personally or through an attorney, and parties may be represented by counsel. Ohio Rev. Code 1925.04, 1925.17 |
| Oklahoma | $10,000, not counting attorney fees and court costs, for money claims based on contract or tort (not libel or slander), replevin of personal property worth up to $10,000, and interpleader up to $10,000. 12 O.S. 1751(A) | $45 to file the small claims affidavit for claims of $5,000 or less; claims over $5,000 are charged the regular district court filing fees under Title 28. Counterclaims and setoffs carry a separate fee. 12 O.S. 1764 | Yes. The Act does not bar attorneys and provides for attorney fees: in uncontested cases fees are generally capped at 10% of the judgment (up to 25% on documented application). 12 O.S. 1751(C) |
| Oregon | $10,000 (including the value of any property claimed). Claims of $750 or less must be filed in small claims (unless a statute allows attorney fees); claims over $750 up to $10,000 may be filed in small claims or the regular civil department. ORS 46.405(2)-(5) | $57 if the amount claimed is $2,500 or less; $102 if more than $2,500. The defendant pays the same fee schedule when requesting a hearing. A fee deferral or waiver can be requested. ORS 46.570 | Only with the judge's consent. Businesses and public bodies may appear without an attorney, and one spouse may appear for both with written consent. ORS 46.415(4), (5), (7) |
| Pennsylvania | $12,000, exclusive of interest and costs, for contract (assumpsit) and tort (trespass) claims and government fines and penalties. A plaintiff may waive the part of a larger claim over $12,000 to file in magisterial district court; the waiver is revoked automatically if the defendant appeals. Claims against Commonwealth parties and contract cases where title to real estate may be in question are excluded. 42 Pa.C.S. 1515(a)(3) | Statutory base costs are $30 (claims of $500 or less), $40 (over $500 to $2,000), $50 (over $2,000 to $4,000) and $75 (over $4,000 to $12,000), but these were increased each year by inflation through 2024, so the amount charged is higher. Service costs are added, and filing and service costs are due when the complaint is filed. A party who cannot afford costs may ask for a fee waiver. 42 Pa.C.S. 1725.1(a), (f); Pa.R.Civ.P.M.D.J. 206, 206.1 | Yes. An individual may appear personally, through an attorney, or through a non-lawyer representative who has personal knowledge of the dispute and written authorization filed with the court. Partnerships and corporations may appear through an attorney, a partner or officer, or an authorized employee or agent with personal knowledge. Pa.R.Civ.P.M.D.J. 207 |
| Rhode Island | $5,000, exclusive of interest and costs, for contract claims, tax claims for money only, money claims arising from a retail sale of goods or services to the public, and claims on negotiable instruments. A larger claim cannot be split into several $5,000 cases. Only money judgments are available. R.I. Gen. Laws 10-16-1 | $55 entry fee, plus a one-time $17.50 processing fee and $3.25 technology surcharge (3.25% extra if paying by card). The small claims execution fee is $20. R.I. Gen. Laws 10-16-4(a); R.I. District Court Civil Fees and Costs | Yes. The District Court provides separate small claims complaint and answer forms for attorneys. Clerks cannot give legal advice or fill out forms. R.I. District Court, Small Claims |
| South Carolina | $7,500 for civil claims, including contract debts, personal injury and property damage, recovery of personal property and damages for unreturned rental property. Magistrates also hear landlord-tenant and possession matters. Cases where the State is a party or title to real estate is in question are excluded. S.C. Code 22-3-10, 22-3-20 | $45 statewide for issuing the summons and giving judgment in a civil action; rises to $65 on January 1, 2027. A person unable to pay may file a motion to proceed in forma pauperis with an affidavit. S.C. Code 8-21-1010(A)(6) (2026 Act No. 155) | Yes. Parties may appear with or without an attorney; when a party has no lawyer, the magistrate must question the parties and witnesses so all claims and defenses are presented, and court staff will explain procedures and help with forms when needed. SCRMC Rule 13(a)-(b) |
| South Dakota | $12,000, not including allowable costs or attorney fees. Punitive damages are generally not available. SDCL 15-39-45, 15-39-45.1 | Total filing fee and certified-mail costs (as of July 12, 2026): $24.84 for claims of $100 or less; $30.84 for $100.01-$1,000; $40.84 for $1,000.01-$3,999.99; $42.84 for $4,000-$12,000; add $11.84 for each additional defendant. These costs may be added to the amount claimed. SDCL 15-39-52; UJS Small Claims Filing Fees (July 12, 2026) | Yes. Either party may be represented by an attorney, but a lawyer is not necessary because the court is informal and the judge explains procedures. SDCL 15-39-47; UJS Guide to Small Claims Court |
| Tennessee | $25,000 for civil cases in general sessions court, not counting attorney fees, court costs and discretionary costs. Forcible entry and detainer (eviction) cases and actions to recover personal property have no dollar limit. T.C.A. 16-15-501(d) | Fees are set by each county. Example: in Davidson County (Nashville), filing a civil warrant costs $145.75 (clerk $50, sheriff service $52, litigation tax $43.75), plus $52 for each additional defendant (effective July 12, 2026). Davidson County General Sessions Civil Division Filing Fees | Not verified yet |
| Texas | $20,000, excluding statutory interest and court costs but including any attorney fees, for recovery of money damages, civil penalties, personal property or other relief allowed by law. Debt claim cases (by assignees, debt collectors, lenders) and tenant repair-and-remedy cases have the same $20,000 limit under their own rules. Tex. R. Civ. P. 500.1(a)-(c) | The plaintiff pays the court's filing fee and any service fees when filing the petition. A person who cannot afford the fees may file a Statement of Inability to Afford Payment of Court Costs, which the clerk must provide free. Tex. R. Civ. P. 502.2(b), 502.3 | Yes. An individual may represent themselves or hire an attorney. A corporation or other entity may be represented by an attorney or by a non-attorney employee, owner, officer or partner. The court may allow an unpaid family member or other person to assist a self-represented individual. Tex. R. Civ. P. 500.3 |
| Utah | $20,000, including attorney fees but not court costs or interest (Jan. 1, 2025 through Dec. 31, 2029; rises to $25,000 on Jan. 1, 2030). Small claims cases are for money only; you cannot sue a government agency or bring an eviction in small claims. Utah Code 78A-8-102(1)(a); Utah Courts, Small Claims | $60 for claims of $2,000 or less; $100 for over $2,000 to under $7,500; $185 for $7,500 up to $20,000 (effective May 6, 2026). A fee waiver may be requested. Utah Courts, Court Fees | Not verified yet |
| Vermont | $10,000 for civil money claims (not slander or libel). A larger claim cannot be split into several small claims. Collection of consumer credit debt or medical debt over $5,000 is excluded. 12 V.S.A. 5531 | $65 for claims of $1,000 or less; $90 for claims of $1,001 to $10,000 (consumer credit and medical debt claims: $90 from $1,001 to $5,000). Fee waivers are available by application, and a winning plaintiff can ask to add the fee to the judgment. Vermont Judiciary, Court Fees | Yes. Any person or entity may be represented by an attorney but is not required to be. 12 V.S.A. 5536 |
| Virginia | $5,000, exclusive of interest, for money judgments or recovery of personal property (warrant in detinue) valued up to $5,000. Small claims jurisdiction is concurrent with the general district court. Va. Code 16.1-122.2 | The plaintiff pays the filing fee and any sheriff's service fee at filing; amounts vary by court and can be calculated with the General District Court Civil Filing Fee Calculation system or obtained from the clerk. Va. Code 16.1-122.3; Small Claims Court Procedures (rev. 10/2024) | No. All parties represent themselves. An attorney may appear only pro se (for themselves) or to remove the case to the regular general district court docket. A party the judge finds unable to participate may be represented by a non-attorney friend or relative who knows the facts. Va. Code 16.1-122.4 |
| Washington | $10,000 for claims brought by a natural person; $5,000 for all other claimants (businesses, corporations). Money claims only. RCW 12.40.010 | $35 base fee plus any authorized surcharge; the AOC brochure says the fee is $35 or $50 depending on whether the county supports a dispute resolution center. Counterclaims carry the same fee. Service or mailing costs are extra and may be recovered by a winning plaintiff. RCW 12.40.020; AOC, An Introduction to Small Claims Court (Oct. 2025) | Not without the judge's permission. Attorneys and legal paraprofessionals may not appear for or participate with a party unless the judge consents; corporations have limited representation rights. RCW 12.40.080 |
| West Virginia | $20,000 in value or amount in controversy. Magistrate courts also hear unlawful entry and detainer of real property when title is not in dispute. W. Va. Code 50-2-1 | $30 for claims of $500 or less; $35 for over $500 to $1,000; $40 for over $1,000 to $2,000; $50 for over $2,000; $30 for relief other than money. Fees are collected in advance, and people unable to pay may proceed without prepayment under W. Va. Code 59-2-1. The magistrate court also charges $1 for mailing by certified or registered mail with return receipt. W. Va. Code 50-3-1 | Not verified yet |
| Wisconsin | $10,000 for money claims and replevin of property worth up to $10,000, rising to $15,000 on January 1, 2027 (2025 Wis. Act 105). Tort and personal injury claims are limited to $5,000. Evictions, earnest-money returns and certain real estate arbitration matters use small claims regardless of amount. Wis. Stat. 799.01(1) | The statutory clerk's fee to start a small claims action is $22, rising to $39 on November 1, 2026 (2025 Wis. Act 179). Service by mail costs $2 per defendant, rising to $7 on November 1, 2026 (plus the certified-mail cost when certified mail is required). A counterclaim over the small claims limit requires paying the difference up to the regular civil filing fee. Wis. Stat. 814.62(3)(a), (4) | Yes. A party may appear personally or through an attorney licensed in Wisconsin; a lawyer is not required. Wis. Stat. 799.06(2) |
| Wyoming | $6,000, exclusive of costs. W.S. 1-21-201 | $10 filing fee in circuit court. Sheriff or process server service fees are extra, and the clerk charges for copies (at least $1 per page). Wyo. R. Small Claims 3; SC Form 01a Instructions (Nov. 2024) | Yes. Parties may appear in person or through authorized employees, with or without an attorney. If one side appears with an attorney, the other side is entitled to a continuance to get an attorney of its own. W.S. 1-21-202(b) |
Plain-English guides
- Do I Need a Lawyer for Small Claims Court?
- How to File a Small Claims Case, Step by Step
- How to Sue Someone: The Basic Steps
- Suing for Emotional Distress: What You Need to Know
Frequently asked questions
What is the small claims court limit?
It depends on the state. Limits range from a few thousand dollars to $20,000 or more, and some states set different limits for businesses or for certain cases. See the state-by-state table.
Do I need a lawyer for small claims court?
No. Small claims is designed for people representing themselves. A few states do not allow lawyers at the hearing at all; others allow them.
Can I sue my landlord in small claims court?
Yes. Security deposit disputes, unpaid repairs and damage claims are among the most common small claims cases. Check your state's deposit penalty rules first — many let you recover more than the deposit.
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.