Updated May 2026 Massachusetts
Massachusetts Small Claims Court Limit (2026)
The maximum amount you can sue for in Massachusetts small claims court, plus filing fees, statutes of limitation, and court-specific tips.
LegalCostCalculator Editorial Team
Data sourced from official government websites · Last reviewed:
$7,000
Court Limit
6 yrs
Written Contract SOL
Statute of limitations
6 yrs
Oral Contract SOL
Statute of limitations
Small Claims Court Limit Calculator
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Court Limit
Written Contract SOL
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How to File → Massachusetts Small Claims Court: What You Need to Know
In Massachusetts, small claims cases are heard in the Small Claims Session. The maximum amount you can sue for is $7,000.
Tip
Massachusetts allows online filing through eFileMA for many counties.Filing Fees in Massachusetts
Filing fees in Massachusetts range from $40 to $150 depending on your claim amount.
Statutes of Limitation in Massachusetts
You must file your claim within the applicable statute of limitations:
- Written contracts: 6 years
- Oral contracts: 6 years
- Property damage: 3 years
Massachusetts Small Claims sessions are held in District and Boston Municipal Courts. Fees range from $40–$100.
Claim too high for small claims?
In most states you can voluntarily reduce (waive) the excess amount to bring your claim within the Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts courts waive fees for filers whose income is below 125–200% of the federal poverty level.Frequently Asked Questions — Massachusetts Small Claims
What is the small claims court limit in Massachusetts?
The small claims court limit in Massachusetts is $7,000. This is the maximum dollar amount you can sue for in the Small Claims Session. Claims exceeding this limit must be filed in a higher civil court.
How much can I sue for in Massachusetts small claims court?
You can sue for up to $7,000 in Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, the statute of limitations is 6 years for written contract claims and 6 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 Massachusetts?
To file in Massachusetts: (1) get a Plaintiff's Claim form from the Small Claims Session clerk or court website, (2) pay the filing fee ($40–$150), (3) serve the defendant, and (4) attend your hearing. See our Massachusetts how-to-file guide for full step-by-step instructions.
What is the Small Claims Session in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts's small claims court is called the Small Claims Session. 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 $7,000 in Massachusetts small claims?
No — the $7,000 cap is absolute in Massachusetts. 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 Massachusetts
Massachusetts Filing Fees
Exact court fees to open your case
How to File in Massachusetts
Step-by-step Massachusetts filing guide
Massachusetts Fee Waiver
Waive filing fees if you can't afford them
Being Sued in Massachusetts?
Defendant rights and response guide
Collect a Judgment in Massachusetts
Enforce your judgment after winning
Massachusetts Divorce Fees
Court costs for filing divorce
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