Start with your state
Rules, fees, and forms change by state and county. Pick your state to reach the exact court — or start your claim and we will ask where you would sue.
Start my claimWhy not just download the free form?
The forms are free. Why pay?
The forms are free. Knowing what to write in them is not. Most rejected filings are rejected on the claim narrative, not the paperwork.
Can't I just hire a lawyer?
Most attorneys will not take a small claims-sized case, and the ones who will cost more than the claim.
What if I get it wrong?
You refile and pay the fee again. That is the actual cost of guessing.
Common questions
How do I sue someone in small claims court?
You file a claim form in the correct court, pay the filing fee, and have the other person formally served with notice. The court then sets a hearing. Choosing the right court and writing the claim correctly are where most people slip.
Can I sue someone in small claims court?
If your dispute is about money or property up to your state's small claims limit, yes — and you do not need a lawyer to do it.
How much can I sue for in small claims court?
The limit is set by each state and commonly ranges from a few thousand dollars up to $10,000–$20,000. Pick your state to see the exact limit.
What do I need to sue someone?
The person's correct legal name and address, the amount you are owed, and the facts and documents that show it. We turn those into the claim the court expects.
Is it worth suing someone in small claims court?
If the amount is within the limit and the person or business can pay, small claims is the cheapest, fastest route to a judgment.
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 — starting with where you would sue. See your claim written out before you pay anything.
Reviewed by Small Claims Desk · Last reviewed 2026-08-28 · Sourced from State judiciary self-help resources and each county's clerk of court and Varies by state. See how we verify.