The small claims limit in California

If the amount is over the limit

You can still bring the claim in small claims court if you give up the amount over the limit. You cannot bring the rest later.

Cal. Code Civ. Proc. §116.220 · A business or agency can bring a claim for up to $6,250. Any claimant can give up the amount over the limit to stay in small claims.

How often you can bring a claim

• You may not file more than two small claims for over $2,500 anywhere in California in the same calendar year. Cal. Code Civ. Proc. §116.231

More about California

• What it costs
• How long you have
• Contractor Dispute
• Property Damage
• Sale of Goods
• Security Deposit
• Unpaid Invoice

Common questions

How much can you claim in small claims court in California?

An individual can claim up to $12,500. A business can claim up to $6,250. A public agency can claim up to $6,250. That comes from Cal. Code Civ. Proc. §116.221, Cal. Code Civ. Proc. §116.220.

What if the amount is over the small claims limit in California?

You can still bring the claim in small claims court if you give up the amount over the limit. You cannot bring the rest later. That comes from Cal. Code Civ. Proc. §116.220.

How many small claims can you bring in a year in California?

You may not file more than two small claims for over $2,500 anywhere in California in the same calendar year. That comes from Cal. Code Civ. Proc. §116.231.

Which court handles small claims in California?

Small Claims Court. The small claims division of the Superior Court in each county.

How long do you have to bring a small claims claim in California?

The shortest window is 2 years, counted from the day the payment was missed or the agreement was broken, under Cal. Code Civ. Proc. §339. Other kinds of claim run longer; the time-limit page lists each one.