Ready to sue? Start here

You've decided you want your money or property back, and you're thinking about small claims court. That's a big step, and it's normal to feel frustrated, unsure, or a little nervous about it.

The good news: small claims is built for everyday people, and being organized goes a long way. You don't need fancy words. You need a clear story, your proof, and an understanding of your court's process.

Below is the order we suggest working in. Rules differ by state and court, so check your court's own rules as you go.

Is small claims right for you?

Small claims court is generally meant for smaller-dollar disputes, like a deposit that wasn't returned, a job that wasn't finished, a loan that wasn't repaid, or property that was damaged. Each state sets its own dollar limit and decides which kinds of cases it hears, so look up your state before you go further.

It also helps to ask yourself a few honest questions. Can you explain what happened in a few sentences? Do you have something that backs up your story, like texts, receipts, photos, or a contract? Do you know the correct name and address of the person or business you'd be suing? If the answer to these is yes, you're off to a solid start.

Before you file

Many people find it worth trying to resolve the problem first. A calm, written request that explains what happened and what you're asking for gives the other side a chance to make it right, and it creates a record of your effort. Check your court's rules about anything you need to do before you file.

While you wait for a response, start collecting your evidence and writing down your timeline. If nothing changes, you'll already have most of what you need to file.

Free starter kit

Get the free starter kit: a basic timeline, checklists, and links for your state.

Get the free starter kit

Your path

  1. Read the 10 things to do before you sueTry to resolve it, put your request in writing, and check that small claims fits your situation.Read the free guide →
  2. Save your texts and screenshots as evidenceCapture messages, photos, and receipts so they're clear and easy to show.Read the evidence guide →
  3. Find your state and courtOpen your state's page for the basics and links to official court information.Open the state map →
  4. See how Small Claims Coach worksFree state basics first, then the Playbook if you want more depth.How it works →
  5. Grab the free starter kitA short checklist: your timeline, what you're asking for, your proof, and who you're suing.Get the starter kit →

Ready to file? See a filled-in sample first.

Every state and DC has a filled-in sample claim form in the Playbook, using a made-up case, with a box-by-box guide, so you can see where your own facts go before you fill in the real form. For Mississippi, Oklahoma and Wyoming it's a sample layout we made, so you'd get the real form from the court clerk. You also get your state's Playbook section. $149 for your first year (introductory offer), then $199 a year. Join now.

See what's in the Playbook →

What to expect

In general terms, the process looks like this: you file a claim with the court, the other side is formally notified, and both sides come to a hearing where a judge or similar official listens and decides. Some courts offer mediation along the way. The forms, fees, and timing depend on your state and court, so check your court's own instructions or ask the clerk.

Hearings are usually short. Plan to explain your side clearly, show your proof, and answer questions calmly. Practice telling your story out loud once or twice before the day.

Staying organized

Keep everything about your case in one place: a folder, a binder, or a single digital folder. A simple setup works well: a one-page timeline of what happened and when, a short list of what you're asking for and why, and your evidence in the same order as your timeline.

Label each piece of evidence and make copies according to your court's instructions. Keep a short log of every contact with the other side and with the court. When hearing day comes, you'll be able to find any page quickly, which helps you stay calm.

Free starter kit

Get the free starter kit: a basic timeline, checklists, and links for your state.

Get the free starter kit

Frequently asked questions

Is small claims court right for my situation?

It's generally for smaller-dollar disputes like unreturned deposits, unpaid loans, unfinished work, or property damage. Each state sets its own dollar limit and case types, so check your state's rules first.

Do I need a lawyer for small claims court?

Small claims is designed for people to handle their own cases, and many people do. If your case is complex or a lot is at stake, you can talk to a lawyer before you decide how to proceed. Check your court's rules about lawyers.

Should I try to settle before I file?

Many people find it helpful to send a calm, written request first. It gives the other side a chance to fix the problem and creates a record. Check your court's rules about anything you need to do before you file.

What evidence should I gather?

Gather anything that supports your story: texts, emails, receipts, contracts, photos, and records of payments. Put them in order with a simple timeline so they're easy to show.

How much does it cost to file, and how long will it take?

Filing fees and timelines vary by state and court. Check your state's page, your court's website, or ask the clerk for current fees and what to expect.

Can Small Claims Coach tell me if I'll win?

No. Nobody can promise an outcome. We help you get organized and present your own case clearly, using public information. We are not a law firm.

Related

You do the work. The Playbook hands you the plays.

You already know your story. The Playbook helps you organize it: a document checklist, exhibit labels, a one-page timeline and a hearing-day outline that work in any state, plus your state's Playbook section and filled-in sample claim form. One membership covers every state. $149 for your first year (introductory offer), then $199 a year. Join now.

See the Playbook

Small Claims Coach is built to help you handle your case yourself, without a lawyer — but if your situation is complicated, does not fit our samples, or a deadline is close, you may want to call a lawyer.

Small Claims Coach uses public information to build the Playbook, which coaches you as you organize and present your own case. We are not your lawyer, there is no attorney-client relationship, and we don't want the details of your case.

This information is for educational purposes only. It is not legal advice.