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

The filing fee in Pennsylvania is $55. The maximum claim amount is $12,000.

What is the small claims court limit in Pennsylvania?

In Pennsylvania, you can sue for up to $12,000 in Magisterial District Court.

No. Magisterial District Court in Pennsylvania is designed for people to represent themselves without an attorney.

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

Filing Fee

$55

Max Claim

$12,000

Court

Magisterial District Court

Statute

42 Pa.C.S. §1515

File a Statement of Claim at the Magisterial District Court

File in the district where the defendant lives or where the cause of action arose

Pay filing fee

Hearing scheduled within 30-60 days

Served by the court via certified mail or personal delivery by constable.

✓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 — Pennsylvania caps small claims at $12,000

✓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 Pennsylvania. 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 Pennsylvania court forms automatically.