For example, if you file an action for $4,000 in February 2015, and another action for $4,000 in March 2015, you may not file any more actions for more than $2,500 until January 1, 2016. Also, no claimant (natural person or legal entity) may file more than two small claims court actions for more than $2,500 anywhere in the state during any calendar year. Corporations, partnerships, unincorporated associations, governmental bodies, and other legal entities cannot claim more than $5,000.
However, natural persons (individuals) can claim up to $10,000. In general, claims are limited to disputes up to $5,000. If you are a non-English speaker, see information on an interpreter. You don’t need to be a United States citizen to file or defend a case in small claims court. They are also called claimants or parties. The person against whom the claim is filed against is called the defendant. The person who files the claim is called the plaintiff. In small claims court, the rules are simplified and the hearing is informal. Small claims court is a special court where disputes are resolved quickly and inexpensively. Basic Considerations and Questions What Is Small Claims Court?