Small Claims Court Filing Fee Calculator
Find out exactly how much it costs to file a small claims case in your state. Covers filing fees, service costs, and total expenses for all 50 states.
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Small Claims Filing Fees by State — Quick Reference
Every state has its own small claims court with different filing fees, claim limits, and court names. Here's the complete breakdown for all 50 states plus Washington DC:
| State | Claim Limit | Court Name | Typical Fee Range |
|---|
What's Included in the Cost of Filing
Filing a small claims case involves more than just the court filing fee. Here's a breakdown of each cost you should budget for:
Filing Fee
This is the fee you pay to the court clerk when you file your complaint. It varies by state and usually scales with your claim amount — larger claims cost more to file. Filing fees range from as low as $15 (Illinois, New York) to $300 (Florida for claims over $2,500). Most states charge between $30 and $75.
Service of Process ($25–$75)
After filing, you must formally notify the defendant. This is called "service of process." The most common methods are hiring a process server ($25–$75) or having the sheriff's office serve the papers. Some courts allow service by certified mail, which is cheaper. Our calculator uses the midpoint estimate of $50.
Certified Mail for Demand Letter ($10)
Most states require (or strongly recommend) sending a demand letter before filing suit. Sending it via certified mail with return receipt creates proof that the defendant received your demand. This typically costs about $10 at the post office.
Document Copies ($10)
You'll need copies of your complaint, evidence, and supporting documents for the court, the defendant, and yourself. Budget about $10 for photocopies and printing. Some courts charge per page for certified copies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to file in small claims court?
Filing fees vary by state and claim amount, typically ranging from $15 to $300. Most states charge between $30 and $75 for claims under $5,000. Additional costs include service of process ($25–$75), certified mail for a demand letter (~$10), and document copies (~$10). Use the calculator above for your exact costs.
Can I recover my filing fees if I win?
Yes, in most states you can ask the judge to include your filing fees and court costs in the judgment. If you win, the defendant is typically ordered to reimburse your filing fee, service costs, and other reasonable court expenses.
Do I need a lawyer for small claims court?
No. Small claims court is specifically designed for people to represent themselves without a lawyer. In some states like California, lawyers are not even allowed to represent parties in small claims court. The process is simplified with less formal rules of evidence.
What is the maximum amount I can sue for in small claims court?
Small claims limits vary by state, ranging from $2,500 (Kentucky) to $25,000 (Tennessee). Most states set the limit between $5,000 and $10,000. If your claim exceeds your state's limit, you can either sue for the maximum allowed or file in a higher court.
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