Small Claims Court Fee Calculator
Estimate the cost to file a small claims case — filing fee, service of process, witness fees — and see if your claim is worth pursuing given state monetary limits and breakeven thresholds.
| Filing fee | — |
| Service fee | — |
| Subpoena fees | — |
| Total fees | — |
Small claims court is designed to be the people's courthouse — no attorneys required, filing fees under $100, and a judgment within 30–60 days. But suing only pays if your claim is below your state's monetary limit and the defendant has collectable assets. Run the math before you file.
State Small Claims Limits 2026
Limits vary widely. California: $12,500 (or $6,500 for businesses). Texas: $20,000. New York: $10,000. Florida: $8,000. Most states: $5,000–$10,000. Above the limit, you must file in district / civil court — same plaintiff rights but higher filing fees and discovery rules.
Typical Costs
Filing fee: $30–$100 depending on state and claim tier. Service of process: $12 (certified mail) to $95 (private process server). Witness subpoenas: $15–$30 each. Total out-of-pocket: usually $50–$250.
Can You Collect If You Win?
The judgment is only as good as the defendant's ability to pay. Common collection paths: wage garnishment (max 25% of disposable income federally), bank levy, lien on property. Judgments are valid 10–20 years and renewable in most states. But if the defendant has no job, no bank account, and no property — you may have an uncollectable judgment.
Last updated May 2026. Sources: US Courts Self-Help, Nolo Small Claims Guide.