How much does it cost to file in small claims court in Illinois?

The filing fee in Illinois is $80. The maximum claim amount is $10,000.

What is the small claims court limit in Illinois?

In Illinois, you can sue for up to $10,000 in Circuit Court - Small Claims.

No. Circuit Court - Small Claims in Illinois is designed for people to represent themselves without an attorney.

Everything you need to know about filing a small claims case in Illinois. No lawyer needed.

Filing Fee

$80

Max Claim

$10,000

Court

Circuit Court - Small Claims

Statute

735 ILCS 5/2-101

File a Small Claims Complaint at the Circuit Court Clerk's office

File in the county where the defendant resides or where the transaction occurred

Pay filing fee

Serve defendant at least 3 days before the court date

Service by sheriff, licensed process server, or any person 18+ appointed by the court.

✓Bring ALL documentation — contracts, invoices, texts, emails, photos

✓Arrive early and dress professionally

✓Be concise — judges hear dozens of cases per day

✓Stick to facts, not emotions

✓Bring copies of everything (one for you, one for the judge, one for the defendant)

✓Know the limit — Illinois caps small claims at $10,000

✓Send a demand letter first — 40% of cases settle without going to court

No. Small claims court is specifically designed for people to represent themselves. In some states, lawyers are not even allowed.

From filing to hearing, typically 30-60 days in Illinois. Many cases settle before the hearing after receiving the demand letter.

You can use enforcement tools like wage garnishment, bank levies, and property liens to collect. CollectNow provides all these documents.

Generally, you must file in the state where the defendant lives or where the transaction/incident occurred.

We generate your demand letter and pre-fill all Illinois court forms automatically.