Prepare for a small claims case
Find official court information and learn what to ask before filing. The right court, amount limits, fees, and procedures depend on your case and location.
Find your small claims court rules
The state-limit calculator is unavailable because its state information is not verified. A dollar amount alone cannot determine whether a case belongs in small claims court.
Start with your court
- Choose your state in the U.S. Department of Justice court directory.
- Follow the state court links to the local court that may hear your dispute. Look for its small claims self-help pages and forms.
- Check current rules with that court before filing. Ask its clerk or a legal aid provider if you need help finding them.
Questions to check
- What limit applies to this claimant and type of claim? Are interest or costs counted?
- Is this kind of dispute allowed, and is this the right court and location?
- What filing deadline, fee, service requirements, and attorney rules apply?
- What are the hearing, appeal, and collection rules?
For example, Arizona courts say a plaintiff's claims may not exceed $5,000, excluding interest and costs; other restrictions also apply. This is not a determination of eligibility or legal advice.
Before you file
Check the rules
Limits, permitted claims, filing deadlines, service, and attorney rules vary. Ask the court whether its rules fit your dispute.
Prepare your records
Identify the other party correctly and organize the documents, communications, and proof of the amount you seek.
Plan for what comes after
A judgment does not guarantee payment. Check the court's rules on appeals and collection before deciding how to proceed.
Small claims guides
Browse all guides →Consider filing, evidence, and presenting your case.
Understand filing, service, hearings, and what can happen after judgment.
Questions to ask about getting paid after a judgment.
Organize contracts, receipts, photographs, and communications.
Educational information only, not legal advice. Read our methodology and sources.