2026 Guide Washington 25 Dispute Types
Washington Small Claims Court — Dispute Guides
Select who you're suing for a guide tailored to Washington's court rules, the $10,000 limit, and your specific dispute type.
$10,000
SC limit
$31–$50
Filing fee
Small Claims Department
Court name
Who Are You Suing in Washington?
Landlord
$500–$5,000 Security deposits, unpaid repairs & habitability disputes
Washington guide →
Contractor
$500–$10,000 Incomplete work, shoddy repairs & contractor fraud
Washington guide →
Employer
$200–$7,500 Unpaid wages, last paycheck & withheld commissions
Washington guide →
Amazon
$50–$2,000 Damaged goods, undelivered orders & third-party seller disputes
Washington guide →
Car Dealer
$500–$10,000 Undisclosed damage, deposit disputes & lemon car issues
Washington guide →
Insurance Company
$500–$10,000 Claim denials, underpayment & bad faith delays
Washington guide →
Neighbor
$200–$5,000 Property damage, fence disputes & nuisance claims
Washington guide →
Mechanic / Auto Shop
$200–$5,000 Overcharges, unauthorized repairs & damage while in their care
Washington guide →
Roommate
$200–$5,000 Unpaid rent, stolen deposits & property damage
Washington guide →
Airline
$100–$3,000 Canceled flights, baggage loss & denied boarding compensation
Washington guide →
Airbnb / VRBO
$200–$3,000 Host disputes, property damage & refund denials
Washington guide →
Moving Company
$500–$8,000 Damaged belongings, inflated bills & hostage loads
Washington guide →
Online Seller (eBay, Facebook, Craigslist)
$100–$3,000 Misrepresented items, non-delivery & fraud
Washington guide →
Dog Owner
$200–$10,000 Bite injuries, property damage & vet bills
Washington guide →
Friend or Family Member
$100–$5,000 Unpaid loans, bounced checks & personal money disputes
Washington guide →
Uber or Lyft
$100–$5,000 Accidents, overcharges & property damage
Washington guide →
Hotel
$100–$5,000 Injury, overcharges & accommodation disputes
Washington guide →
Store / Retailer
$50–$3,000 Return disputes, defective products & overcharges
Washington guide →
Car Accident (Other Driver)
$500–$10,000 Vehicle damage, injuries & uninsured drivers
Washington guide →
Cell Phone Company
$100–$2,000 Overcharges, broken contracts & deposit disputes
Washington guide →
Gym / Fitness Club
$100–$1,500 Membership cancellation disputes & unauthorized charges
Washington guide →
Wedding Vendor
$500–$10,000 Deposit disputes, no-shows & broken vendor contracts
Washington guide →
Doctor / Medical Provider
$200–$5,000 Billing errors, overcharges & surprise bills
Washington guide →
Property Manager
$300–$8,000 Mismanagement, fee disputes & unauthorized charges
Washington guide →
Internet / Cable Provider
$100–$2,000 Overcharges, broken speed promises & equipment deposits
Washington guide →
Washington Small Claims — At a Glance
Court name Small Claims Department
Maximum claim $10,000
Filing fee range $31–$50
Written contract SoL 6 years
Property damage SoL 3 years
Oral contract SoL 3 years
Washington tip
Washington has low filing fees and a reasonable $10,000 limit — one of the better states for claimants.Frequently Asked Questions
What is the small claims limit in Washington?
The small claims limit in Washington is $10,000. This is the maximum dollar amount you can sue for in the Small Claims Department. If your actual damages exceed this amount, you can reduce your claim to fit within the limit or file in a higher civil court for the full amount.
How do I file a small claims case in Washington?
To file a small claims case in Washington: (1) get the plaintiff's claim form from the Small Claims Department or its website; (2) complete it with the defendant's full legal name and address; (3) file at the courthouse and pay the $31–$50 filing fee; (4) serve the defendant; (5) attend your hearing with all evidence.
How long do I have to file a small claims case in Washington?
In Washington, the statute of limitations for written contracts is 6 years and for oral contracts is 3 years. You must file before this deadline — courts dismiss time-barred claims regardless of merit. The clock starts from the date of the dispute or breach.
Can I bring a lawyer to small claims court in Washington?
Attorney representation rules in Washington small claims court vary. Most small claims cases are handled without lawyers — the simplified process and short hearing times make self-representation practical. If the amount is significant or the issues are complex, a brief attorney consultation before the hearing (not at the hearing) can help you prepare your case.
What happens if I win but the other party doesn't pay in Washington?
If the other party refuses to pay your judgment, you can use enforcement tools: wage garnishment, bank account levy, or a property lien recorded with the county. All require a Writ of Execution from the court. Your judgment also earns post-judgment interest while unpaid. See our full Washington judgment collection guide for step-by-step enforcement instructions.