Small claims court is a fast, affordable way to resolve disputes up to $2,500–$25,000 without hiring an attorney. Most cases are decided in under 90 days. Before you file, sending a formal demand letter is both legally required in some states and strategically powerful in all of them.
Select your state below for the complete filing guide including limits, fees, serving requirements, and what to expect at the hearing.
When to Use Small Claims Court
- Landlord won't return your security deposit
- Gym keeps charging after you canceled
- Contractor completed work poorly or not at all
- Someone owes you money from a personal loan or agreement
- Property damage from a neighbor, vehicle accident, or tenant
- Retailer won't process a valid refund
The Demand Letter: Required First Step
Most courts expect or require you to have attempted to resolve the dispute before filing. A certified mail demand letter proves you made a good-faith attempt. Judges take cases more seriously when plaintiffs can show they sent a proper demand letter and the defendant failed to respond.
How Small Claims Court Works
- File your claim at the courthouse with the appropriate filing fee ($10–$300 depending on state and claim amount).
- Serve the defendant — typically by certified mail, sheriff, or process server (varies by state).
- Prepare your evidence — contracts, invoices, photos, demand letter, certified mail receipt, bank statements.
- Attend the hearing — present your case clearly and factually. The judge may rule immediately.
- Collect the judgment — if you win, you may need to garnish wages or bank accounts if the defendant doesn't pay voluntarily.
Select Your State for the Complete Guide
Click your state to get the full legal guide, exact deadlines, and your free demand letter template.
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