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The first thing you should know if you want to take someone to small claims court is how much you can sue them for in the state you would like to file your lawsuit. Below is a 50-state chart of the small claims limits. If you click on the state name, you will find a guide on how small claims works in that state.
Are you looking for the deadline for when you can sue in small claims court instead? This is known as the statute of limitations. Learn more about statutes of limitations for small claims court.
State | Dollar Limit |
|---|---|
$6,000 | |
$10,000 | |
$3,500 | |
$5,000 | |
$12,500 for Individuals. $6,250 for Corporations and LLCs. | |
$7,500 | |
$5,000 | |
$15,000 | |
$8,000 | |
$15,000 | |
$5,000. There is no limit for security deposit claims. | |
$5,000 | |
$10,000 | |
$10,000. Except in Marion county which is $8,000. | |
$6,500 | |
$4,000 | |
$2,500 | |
$5,000 | |
$6,000 | |
$5,000 | |
$7,000. Claims based on car accidents can be for more. | |
$6,500 | |
$15,000. The maximum for consumer credit transactions is $4,000. | |
$3,500 | |
$5,000 | |
$7,000 | |
$3,900 | |
$10,000 | |
$10,000. Any claim in excess of $5,000 is subject to mandatory mediation. | |
$5,000 | |
$10,000 | |
$10,000 in NYC; $5,000 or $3,000 outside of NYC depending on the type of small claims court. | |
The amount varies by county, from $5,000 to $10,000. | |
$15,000 | |
$6,000 | |
$10,000 | |
$10,000 | |
$12,000 | |
$5,000 | |
$7,500 | |
$12,000 | |
$25,000 | |
$20,000 | |
On or after May 4, 2022, through December 31, 2024, $15,000 including attorney fees. On or after January 1, 2025, through December 31, 2029, $20,000 including attorney fees. On or after January 1, 2030, $25,000 including attorney fees. | |
$5,000 | |
$5,000 | |
$10,000 | |
$10,000 | |
$10,000 | |
$10,000. Third-party complaints, personal injury claims, and actions based on torts are limited to claims of $5,000 or less. While actions based on evictions have no limit. | |
$6,000 |
*Check your local court's website for any additional rules or exclusions.
Please note, these limits may change at any time and you should confirm the limit with the court before filing your lawsuit.
What do I do if I want to sue someone for more than the small claims limit?
Option 1: Consider suing in a different type of court in your state.
For example, in California, the next court up after small claims court is called “Limited Civil” where you can sue for up to $35,000. The procedure for Limited Civil is more complicated and you may want to consider quoting how much a lawyer would charge you to assist you with the process.
Some factors you should consider when weighing your options:
If you proceed in small claims, you may be waiving suing for the difference between the amount you are owed and the small claims limit.
Small claims is cheaper, faster, and more convenient than other types of courts.
The cost of hiring a lawyer in a regular court case versus handling small claims on your own.
Option 2: Send a demand letter.
When you have a dispute with someone, the first step is to communicate with them informally to resolve the problem (call or email). If informal communication does not work, the second step is usually to send a formal letter known as a demand letter. A demand letter outlines why you are upset and what you hope the other party will do to resolve the problem (for example, provide a refund). You are not bound by the small claims limits when writing a demand letter. Learn how to write a demand letter.
What do I do if I am not owed money?
It is important to note that in most small claims courts, you will only be able to sue someone for money. You may not be able to sue to force someone to do something. For example, if you want to sue an auto repair shop because they damaged your car engine you may be able to sue them in small claims court for the cost of the damaged engine but you may not be able to force the auto repair shop to fix your damaged engine. If your intent is to force someone to do something, you should consider reviewing the rules in your state on what types of lawsuits can be filed in small claims court.
Up next: Review our guide on how to take someone to small claims court.
Camila Lopez, Esq.
Legal Educator at JusticeDirect. Camila holds a law degree and is a certified mediator. Her passion is breaking down complicated legal processes so that people without an attorney can get justice.
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Camila Lopez, Esq.
Legal Educator at JusticeDirect. Camila holds a law degree and is a certified mediator. Her passion is breaking down complicated legal processes so that people without an attorney can get justice.