The forms you need
To open a small claims case in Michigan you file the court's claim form and a service/summons form:
- The court's claim form (Statement of Claim, Complaint, or Petition — your court's term)
- Summons / notice to the defendant
- Proof/return of service
Terminology and layout vary by county in Michigan. The blank forms are free; getting the wording right is what keeps your case from being sent back. We supply your county's current forms, completed with your claim.
Get your county's forms
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
What forms do I need for small claims in Michigan?
The court's claim form plus a summons/service form, filed in District Court. Some counties add a return-of-service form.
What is the Michigan small claims form called?
It depends on the county and court — often a Statement of Claim, Complaint, or Petition. We use your court's exact term.
Where do I get Michigan small claims forms?
From the county court that will hear your case. We keep the current version for each supported county.
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 2026-08-23 · Sourced from Michigan judiciary self-help resources and each county's clerk of court and MCL 600.8401 (Small Claims Division; $7,000 limit effective January 1, 2024, up from $6,500 in 2021, $6,000 in 2018, $5,500 in 2015, $5,000 in 2012). See how we verify.