Updated May 2026 Arkansas
Arkansas Small Claims Court Limit (2026)
The maximum amount you can sue for in Arkansas small claims court, plus filing fees, statutes of limitation, and court-specific tips.
LegalCostCalculator Editorial Team
Data sourced from official government websites · Last reviewed:
$5,000
Court Limit
5 yrs
Written Contract SOL
Statute of limitations
3 yrs
Oral Contract SOL
Statute of limitations
Small Claims Court Limit Calculator
Select your state to see the maximum amount you can sue for and applicable statutes of limitation.
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Court Limit
Written Contract SOL
Oral Contract SOL
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How to File → Arkansas Small Claims Court: What You Need to Know
In Arkansas, small claims cases are heard in the Small Claims Division. The maximum amount you can sue for is $5,000.
Tip
Corporations cannot file in Arkansas small claims court — only individuals.Filing Fees in Arkansas
Filing fees in Arkansas range from $35 to $65 depending on your claim amount.
Statutes of Limitation in Arkansas
You must file your claim within the applicable statute of limitations:
- Written contracts: 5 years
- Oral contracts: 3 years
- Property damage: 3 years
Arkansas small claims cases are heard in District Courts. A small surcharge may apply per additional defendant.
Claim too high for small claims?
In most states you can voluntarily reduce (waive) the excess amount to bring your claim within the Arkansas limit. It's often worth it to avoid the higher cost and complexity of regular civil court.Can't afford the filing fee?
Ask the court clerk for a fee waiver application (In Forma Pauperis). Most Arkansas courts waive fees for filers whose income is below 125–200% of the federal poverty level.Frequently Asked Questions — Arkansas Small Claims
What is the small claims court limit in Arkansas?
The small claims court limit in Arkansas is $5,000. This is the maximum dollar amount you can sue for in the Small Claims Division. Claims exceeding this limit must be filed in a higher civil court.
How much can I sue for in Arkansas small claims court?
You can sue for up to $5,000 in Arkansas small claims court. If your actual damages are higher, you can voluntarily reduce (waive) the excess to fit within the limit — often worth doing to avoid the cost and complexity of regular civil court.
What is the statute of limitations for small claims in Arkansas?
In Arkansas, the statute of limitations is 5 years for written contract claims and 3 years for oral contract claims. Always file before the deadline — courts dismiss time-barred claims regardless of merit.
How do I file a small claims case in Arkansas?
To file in Arkansas: (1) get a Plaintiff's Claim form from the Small Claims Division clerk or court website, (2) pay the filing fee ($35–$65), (3) serve the defendant, and (4) attend your hearing. See our Arkansas how-to-file guide for full step-by-step instructions.
What is the Small Claims Division in Arkansas?
Arkansas's small claims court is called the Small Claims Division. It handles civil monetary disputes quickly and affordably, without the formality of regular civil court. Most parties represent themselves without an attorney.
Can I sue for more than $5,000 in Arkansas small claims?
No — the $5,000 cap is absolute in Arkansas. You can file in a higher civil court if your claim is larger, or voluntarily reduce your claim to fit within the limit and waive the excess. Splitting one claim into multiple small claims cases to circumvent the cap is not permitted.
Also See for Arkansas
Arkansas Filing Fees
Exact court fees to open your case
How to File in Arkansas
Step-by-step Arkansas filing guide
Arkansas Fee Waiver
Waive filing fees if you can't afford them
Being Sued in Arkansas?
Defendant rights and response guide
Collect a Judgment in Arkansas
Enforce your judgment after winning
Arkansas Divorce Fees
Court costs for filing divorce
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