California Small Claims
California filing basics for renter claims, consumer disputes, contractor disputes, unpaid wages, and property damage cases.
General Information Only: This page provides general educational information as of January 2025. Court rules and fees change frequently. Always verify current requirements with your local court or the California Courts website.
California
Superior Court - Small Claims Division
Start with the California path that fits your dispute
These five claim tracks are the main audience paths we are optimizing. Use the matching guide, then verify California limits, fees, and county court details below.
California rental money disputes
Start with renter guidance, then verify California limits, venue rules, and county court details on this page.
ConsumersCalifornia consumer disputes
Use the consumer guide for refunds, warranty issues, and scams, then confirm California filing costs and service rules below.
ContractorsCalifornia contractor claims
Use the contractor guide for bad workmanship and unfinished jobs, then match the claim to the right California court.
WorkersCalifornia wage-related claims
Use the wage guide to organize unpaid paycheck issues, then confirm whether California small claims is the right venue.
Property ownersCalifornia property damage claims
Use the property-damage guide for vehicle, home, and belongings damage, then verify California claim caps and local court procedures.
$12,500*
Individual limit
$6,250*
For corporations
$30-$75*
Varies by amount
Typically No
Self-representation
Available County Guides
The first California rollout is live for 10 counties. Use the chips for quick access or open the dropdown to jump straight into a local filing page.
Key Information
1Who Can File
- Individuals 18 or older
- Businesses (with lower limits)
- Guardians for minors
- Must file in proper venue
2Filing Limits
- Max 2 claims over $2,500/year
- Corporations: $6,250 max
- Natural persons: $12,500 max
- No limit on smaller claims
Common Case Types
Security Deposits
Landlord didn't return deposit
Property Damage
Car accidents, neighbor disputes
Unpaid Debts
Loans, services not paid
Contract Disputes
Broken agreements
Consumer Issues
Defective products, refunds
Minor Injuries
Dog bites, slip and fall
Typical Limitation Periods
These are general time limits. Many exceptions may apply. Verify with official sources or consult an attorney:
Filing Process Overview
Complete SC-100 Form
Plaintiff's Claim and ORDER to Go to Small Claims Court
File with Court
Submit form and pay filing fee at your local Superior Court
Serve the Defendant
Use sheriff, process server, or certified mail (restrictions apply)
Attend Hearing
Present your case to the judge with evidence and witnesses
Receive Judgment
Judge decides the case, often the same day
Legal Disclaimer
This information is provided for general educational purposes only and may be outdated. Laws and procedures change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the California Courts website or consult a licensed attorney. This is not legal advice. See our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.