Small Claims Court FAQ
State-by-state limits and the questions people ask most before filing.
Common questions answered — no forms, no details collected.General questions about small claims court, and the limit for the states people ask about most. For the full 50-state table, see the home page. Each answer reflects 2026 state figures and links to the source statute.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the small claims limit in California for 2026?
In California an individual can sue for up to $12,500 in small claims court; a business or entity is capped at $6,250 (Cal. Civ. Proc. Code § 116.221). You cannot split one debt into multiple claims just to stay under the cap.
How much can you sue for in small claims court in Texas?
Texas justice courts hear small claims up to $20,000 (Tex. Gov. Code § 27.031). That is one of the highest caps in the country, behind only Delaware and Tennessee at $25,000.
What is the small claims filing fee and limit in New York?
New York splits by location: in New York City the limit is $10,000, and outside NYC it is $5,000 (town and village courts are $3,000). Filing fees run about $15–$20 (N.Y. C.P.L.R. § 1801).
What is the small claims dollar limit in Florida?
Florida county courts handle small claims up to $8,000 (Fla. Stat. § 34.011). Filing fees range roughly $55–$300 depending on the amount claimed.
What is the small claims limit in Ohio?
Ohio small claims courts cap recovery at $6,000 (Ohio R.C. § 1925.02). Filing fees are typically $20–$65.
What is the maximum amount for small claims court in Illinois?
Illinois small claims jurisdiction is $10,000 (735 ILCS 5/2-101.6). Filing fees run about $56–$254 depending on the county and the amount claimed.
What is the small claims limit in Arizona?
Arizona justice courts list a small claims limit of $3,500. Some secondary sources cite $5,000 after a 2025 change, but the official Arizona Courts information page still shows $3,500 — confirm the current figure with the justice court before filing.
What is the small claims limit in Georgia for 2026?
Georgia magistrate courts handle small claims up to $15,000. Filing fees are about $45–$75.
What is the small claims limit in Delaware?
Delaware Justice of the Peace Courts hear claims up to $25,000 — tied with Tennessee for the highest cap in the nation. Filing fees are relatively low, around $35–$50.
What is the small claims limit in Tennessee?
Tennessee general sessions courts handle small claims up to $25,000, matching Delaware for the highest cap. Filing fees run about $25–$55.
What is the small claims limit in Kentucky?
Kentucky has the lowest small claims cap in the country at $2,500. For larger disputes you generally must file in another court division. Filing fees are about $20–$40.
What is small claims court?
Small claims court is a simplified forum for resolving disputes under a state dollar limit, usually without the full formalities of higher courts. You present your case directly to a judge or magistrate.
Can I have a lawyer in small claims court?
It depends on the state. Some allow either side to bring a lawyer; others require the person who filed to appear in person. Check your local court rule before the hearing.
How much does it cost to file in small claims court?
Filing fees vary by state and by the amount claimed, typically from about $10 to $300. Many courts waive or reduce the fee if you qualify based on income.
Is the information on this site legal advice?
No. ClaimLimit is a reference only. Confirm the current limit, fee, and procedure with your state court or a qualified attorney before filing.