What is this?
A small claims calculator estimates court filing fees and determines if your case qualifies for small claims court based on your state's monetary limit. Small claims court is designed for resolving disputes under $3,000-$25,000 (varies by state) without lawyers. Use it for unpaid debts, property damage, contract disputes, or small business claims.How to use
Select your state, enter your claim amount (money owed or damages), and specify distance to defendant (affects service fees). The calculator shows filing costs, service fees, eligibility status, and provides winning tips and collection advice.Tips
- State limits: CA $12,500, TX $20,000, FL $8,000, NY $10,000
- Filing fees: $50-$100 depending on state and claim amount
- Service of process: $30-$60 (sheriff delivers lawsuit to defendant)
- Send demand letter first (required in many states)
- Statute of limitations: 2-6 years for most contract/debt claims
- No lawyers in most small claims (exceptions for businesses)
- Bring evidence: Contracts, receipts, photos, communication logs
- Prepare 3 copies of all documents (judge, defendant, yourself)
- Winning ≠ collecting - be prepared to enforce judgment
- Wage garnishment most effective collection method
- Check if defendant is judgment-proof before filing
- Mediation cheaper/faster than trial (offered by many courts)
- Night court available in some jurisdictions for workers
- Filing fee waived if you qualify for indigent status
- Appeal possible but limited (usually procedural errors only)
