Demand letter
A dated letter asking for the money before you file, and saying what happens if it is not paid.
A demand letter sets out the amount, why it is owed, the dates, and a date to respond by. Some states expect you to have sent one; everywhere else it is still the usual first step, and it is often what gets the money paid.
Keep a copy and proof of how it was delivered. It becomes an exhibit if the case goes ahead.
Related words
Common questions
- What does demand letter mean in small claims court?
- A dated letter asking for the money before you file, and saying what happens if it is not paid. A demand letter sets out the amount, why it is owed, the dates, and a date to respond by. Some states expect you to have sent one; everywhere else it is still the usual first step, and it is often what gets the money paid.
- What does evidence mean in small claims court?
- The documents, photos, messages, and receipts that show what happened and what it cost. Evidence is anything that shows a fact: a signed agreement, an invoice, a bank record, a text thread, a photo with a date on it, a repair estimate.
- What does exhibit mean in small claims court?
- One piece of evidence, labelled so everyone in the room can turn to the same page. Number them and refer to the number out loud: Exhibit 3 is the invoice. It saves the judge shuffling paper while you are trying to explain.
- What does claim mean in small claims court?
- The form that starts the case: who you are, who owes you, how much, and why. The claim form is short on purpose. It asks for the amount, a plain description of what happened, and the dates. You sign it, hand it in, and pay the filing fee.
Verified on 2026-09-06, sources:
Verified on 2026-09-06, sources:
FairSquare assembles documents and explains your court's rules. It is not a substitute for advice about your situation.