Updated May 2026 California
California Small Claims Court Limit (2026)
The maximum amount you can sue for in California small claims court, plus filing fees, statutes of limitation, and court-specific tips.
LegalCostCalculator Editorial Team
Data sourced from official government websites · Last reviewed:
$12,500
Court Limit
Individuals. Businesses capped at $6,250.
4 yrs
Written Contract SOL
Statute of limitations
2 yrs
Oral Contract SOL
Statute of limitations
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How to File → California Small Claims Court: What You Need to Know
In California, small claims cases are heard in the Small Claims Court. The maximum amount you can sue for is $12,500. Individuals. Businesses capped at $6,250.
Tip
California allows up to 2 small claims filings over $2,500 per year per person.Filing Fees in California
Filing fees in California range from $30 to $100 depending on your claim amount. Electronic filing is available.
Statutes of Limitation in California
You must file your claim within the applicable statute of limitations:
- Written contracts: 4 years
- Oral contracts: 2 years
- Property damage: 3 years
California uses a tiered fee based on claim amount and number of filings per year. Typical fees range from $30 to $75.
Claim too high for small claims?
In most states you can voluntarily reduce (waive) the excess amount to bring your claim within the California 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 California courts waive fees for filers whose income is below 125–200% of the federal poverty level.Frequently Asked Questions — California Small Claims
What is the small claims court limit in California?
The small claims court limit in California is $12,500. This is the maximum dollar amount you can sue for in the Small Claims Court. Claims exceeding this limit must be filed in a higher civil court.
How much can I sue for in California small claims court?
You can sue for up to $12,500 in California 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 California?
In California, the statute of limitations is 4 years for written contract claims and 2 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 California?
To file in California: (1) get a Plaintiff's Claim form from the Small Claims Court clerk or court website, (2) pay the filing fee ($30–$100), (3) serve the defendant, and (4) attend your hearing. See our California how-to-file guide for full step-by-step instructions.
What is the Small Claims Court in California?
California's small claims court is called the Small Claims Court. 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 $12,500 in California small claims?
No — the $12,500 cap is absolute in California. 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 California
California Filing Fees
Exact court fees to open your case
How to File in California
Step-by-step California filing guide
California Fee Waiver
Waive filing fees if you can't afford them
Being Sued in California?
Defendant rights and response guide
Collect a Judgment in California
Enforce your judgment after winning
California Divorce Fees
Court costs for filing divorce
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