Updated May 2026 Washington
Washington Small Claims Court Filing Fees (2026)
Exact filing fees for the Small Claims Department — enter your claim amount for a personalized estimate.
LegalCostCalculator Editorial Team
Data sourced from official government websites · Last reviewed:
$31–$50
Filing Fee Range
$10,000
Court Limit
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E-Filing Available
Small Claims Filing Fee Calculator
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How to File → Washington Small Claims Filing Fees Explained
To file a small claims case in the Small Claims Department, you must pay a filing fee at the time you submit your paperwork. In Washington, filing fees are $31–$50 depending on the amount of your claim.
Washington offers electronic filing for small claims cases. An e-filing convenience fee of $5 applies.
Washington District Courts handle small claims up to $10,000. King County (Seattle) charges $50 regardless of amount.
Tip
Washington has low filing fees and a reasonable $10,000 limit — one of the better states for claimants.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. Washington courts generally waive fees for low-income filers — bring proof of income.Frequently Asked Questions — Washington
How much does it cost to file a small claims case in Washington?
The small claims filing fee in Washington is $31–$50. 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 Washington?
The fee to start a small claims case in Washington is $31–$50. 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 Washington?
Yes — Washington 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 Washington small claims?
If you cannot afford the $31–$50 filing fee, apply for an In Forma Pauperis (IFP) fee waiver from the court clerk when you file. Eligibility is income-based — most Washington courts use 125–200% of the federal poverty level as the threshold. See our Washington small claims fee waiver guide for the exact form and process.
What court handles small claims in Washington?
Small claims cases in Washington are handled by the Small Claims Department. Contact the clerk's office to confirm the filing location, current hours, and accepted payment methods before you go.
Also See for Washington
Washington Small Claims Limit
Maximum you can sue for: $10,000
How to File in Washington
Step-by-step Washington filing guide
Washington Fee Waiver
Waive filing fees if you can't afford them
Being Sued in Washington?
Defendant rights and response guide
Collect a Judgment in Washington
Enforce your judgment after winning
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