Updated May 2026 New Jersey
New Jersey Small Claims Court Filing Fees (2026)
Exact filing fees for the Special Civil Part — enter your claim amount for a personalized estimate.
LegalCostCalculator Editorial Team
Data sourced from official government websites · Last reviewed:
$35–$75
Filing Fee Range
$5,000
Court Limit
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E-Filing Available
Small Claims Filing Fee Calculator
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How to File → New Jersey Small Claims Filing Fees Explained
To file a small claims case in the Special Civil Part, you must pay a filing fee at the time you submit your paperwork. In New Jersey, filing fees are $35–$75 depending on the amount of your claim.
New Jersey offers electronic filing for small claims cases. An e-filing convenience fee of $5 applies.
New Jersey Special Civil Part handles small claims up to $5,000. E-filing is available in many vicinages.
Tip
New Jersey calls its court the 'Special Civil Part' — the process is more formal than most states.You can recover the filing fee
If you win your case, ask the judge to add the filing fee to your judgment. The defendant would then owe you the original claim plus court costs.Fee waiver available
Can't afford the fee? Ask the court clerk for an In Forma Pauperis (IFP) application. New Jersey courts generally waive fees for low-income filers — bring proof of income.Frequently Asked Questions — New Jersey
How much does it cost to file a small claims case in New Jersey?
The small claims filing fee in New Jersey is $35–$75. The fee is tiered by claim amount — smaller claims cost less to file. Additional costs may include service of process and any applicable courthouse surcharges.
What is the small claims filing fee in New Jersey?
The fee to start a small claims case in New Jersey is $35–$75. This covers the court's cost for opening your case and docketing the claim. It does not include service of process, certified copies, or attorney fees.
Can I file small claims online in New Jersey?
Yes — New Jersey offers e-filing for small claims. An e-filing fee of $5 typically applies in addition to the standard filing fee.
How do I waive the filing fee in New Jersey small claims?
If you cannot afford the $35–$75 filing fee, apply for an In Forma Pauperis (IFP) fee waiver from the court clerk when you file. Eligibility is income-based — most New Jersey courts use 125–200% of the federal poverty level as the threshold. See our New Jersey small claims fee waiver guide for the exact form and process.
What court handles small claims in New Jersey?
Small claims cases in New Jersey are handled by the Special Civil Part. Contact the clerk's office to confirm the filing location, current hours, and accepted payment methods before you go.
Also See for New Jersey
New Jersey Small Claims Limit
Maximum you can sue for: $5,000
How to File in New Jersey
Step-by-step New Jersey filing guide
New Jersey Fee Waiver
Waive filing fees if you can't afford them
Being Sued in New Jersey?
Defendant rights and response guide
Collect a Judgment in New Jersey
Enforce your judgment after winning
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