- Claim limit
- $8,000
- Court
- County Civil Court
- File online
- Yes (statewide)
- Appeal window
- 30 days
Serving the defendant
The filer. Clerks in Florida do not arrange service.
- County sheriff (civil process division)
- Certified process server appointed/approved in the circuit
- Certified mail, where permitted for the case type
Certified mail without complete proof of service will stall the case.
Find your county court
Small claims is filed at the county level. Pick your county for its court, fee, and forms — or start your claim and we'll ask where you'd sue.
Start my claimCommon questions
How much can I sue for in small claims court in Florida?
Up to $8,000, excluding costs, interest and attorneys' fees. If your claim is larger, you can sue for the limit and waive the rest.
What court hears small claims in Florida?
County Civil Court. Cases are filed in the county where the defendant lives or where the dispute happened.
Who can file a small claims case in Florida?
Individual 18 years or older; Partnership (each partner's full name, address, phone required); Corporation (full legal business name, address, phone required); Parent or guardian on behalf of a minor child.
Can I file small claims online in Florida?
Florida offers statewide e-filing through Florida Courts E-Filing Portal. Some counties also accept in-person or mail filing.
How long do I have to appeal in Florida?
Generally 30 days from the judgment. Confirm the exact window for your court.
Your small claims filing packet — $49
Everything above, assembled and filled in with your facts:
- Your court's own forms, with your claim written in the language the court expects
- A demand letter built from the same facts
- A filing checklist with your court's address, hours, and fee
- What to bring to your hearing
Answer a few questions first. See your claim written out before you pay anything.
Reviewed by Small Claims Desk · Last reviewed 2026-08-17 · Sourced from Florida judiciary self-help resources and each county's clerk of court and Fla. Stat. Ch. 34 (County Courts). See how we verify.