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

The filing fee in New York is $20. The maximum claim amount is $10,000.

What is the small claims court limit in New York?

In New York, you can sue for up to $10,000 in Small Claims Court (City/District/Town/Village Court).

No. Small Claims Court (City/District/Town/Village Court) in New York is designed for people to represent themselves without an attorney.

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

Filing Fee

$20

Max Claim

$10,000

Court

Small Claims Court (City/District/Town/Village Court)

Statute

UDCA Article 18, UCCA Article 18

Go to the clerk of the Small Claims Court in your area

Fill out a Statement of Claim

Pay the filing fee ($20 for claims over $1,000, $15 for under)

Court will send notice to defendant by certified mail

Court handles service via certified mail. If mail fails, plaintiff must arrange personal service.

✓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 — New York 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 New York. 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 New York court forms automatically.