The small claims limit in Washington
The limit is the most the court can award on one claim. It depends on who is claiming, and in some states on which court hears it.
| Claiming as | Most you can claim | Rule |
|---|---|---|
| An individual | $10,000 | RCW 12.40.010 |
| A business | $5,000 | RCW 12.40.010 |
| A public agency | $5,000 | RCW 12.40.010 |
More about Washington
Common questions
- How much can you claim in small claims court in Washington?
- An individual can claim up to $10,000. A business can claim up to $5,000. A public agency can claim up to $5,000. That comes from RCW 12.40.010.
- Which court handles small claims in Washington?
- District Court, Small Claims. The small claims department of the district court in the county where the other side lives.
- How long do you have to bring a small claims claim in Washington?
- The shortest window is 3 years, counted from the day the payment was missed or the agreement was broken, under RCW 4.16.080(2), (3). Other kinds of claim run longer; the time-limit page lists each one.
Verify with your court
Numbers change, and a court can post its own variation. Open Washington's small claims page and confirm anything you are about to rely on.
Open the court's small claims pageVerified on 2026-09-05, sources:
Verified on 2026-09-05, sources: Rules effective from 2019-07-28.
- RCW 12.40.010 · effective 2019-07-28 · A person can bring a small claim for up to $10,000. A business or other entity can bring one for up to $5,000.
FairSquare assembles documents and explains your court's rules. It is not a substitute for advice about your situation.