Small claims court in California is designed to help individuals and small businesses resolve disputes quickly and affordably, without the complexity of a traditional lawsuit. This guide explains what California small claims court is, who can file, how much you can claim, how the process works, and what happens after judgment, all in one place.
Whether you are a tenant, landlord, consumer, or small business owner, this page serves as the central reference for California small claims court in 2026.
Table of Contents
What Is Small Claims Court in California?
California small claims court is a division of the Superior Court that handles civil disputes involving relatively small amounts of money. The process is simplified so that most people can represent themselves without hiring a lawyer.
Key characteristics of California small claims court:
- No attorneys are allowed to represent parties at the hearing
- Cases are resolved faster than regular civil lawsuits
- Filing fees are relatively low
- Judges focus on practical evidence rather than technical legal arguments
Small claims court is commonly used for disputes involving unpaid debts, property damage, security deposits, contract issues, and minor landlord-tenant conflicts.
Who Can File a Small Claims Case?
You can file a small claims case in California if you are:
- An individual (including tenants and landlords)
- A sole proprietor
- A partnership or corporation
- A government entity (in limited circumstances)
You must be at least 18 years old, or have a court-appointed guardian if under 18. You can file either as a plaintiff (the person bringing the case) or a defendant responding to a claim.
How Much Can You Claim in California Small Claims Court?
California has different claim limits depending on who is filing:
| Who Is Filing | Maximum Claim Amount |
| Individual (natural person) | $12,500 |
| Business or other entity | $6,250 |
An individual may file no more than two claims over $2,500 per calendar year, though there is no limit on smaller claims.
👉 For a detailed breakdown of claim limits, exceptions, and examples, see:
How Much Can You Claim in California Small Claims Court? Limits Explained
What Types of Cases Are Commonly Handled?
California small claims court typically handles cases involving:
- Unpaid loans or IOUs
- Breach of contract
- Property damage
- Security deposit disputes
- Unpaid wages (limited situations)
- Consumer complaints against businesses
Some matters cannot be handled in small claims court, including divorce, child custody, bankruptcy, and most personal injury cases involving complex damages.
Suing a Business in California Small Claims Court
You can sue a business in small claims court, but you must first identify its correct legal name and legal structure (LLC, corporation, sole proprietorship).
Before filing, it is critical to confirm:
- The exact registered business name
- The proper party to name as the defendant
- The correct address for service of process
👉 Learn how to do this correctly here:
Before You Sue: How to Find a Business’s Legal Name for Small Claims Court
When You Can Sue a Business in Small Claims Court
Can a Tenant Sue a Landlord in Small Claims Court?
Yes. Small claims court is commonly used for landlord-tenant disputes, including:
- Failure to return a security deposit
- Illegal deductions from a deposit
- Minor repair reimbursement claims
- Unpaid rent disputes (limited situations)
However, small claims court is not appropriate for eviction cases or disputes involving possession of the property.
👉 For tenant-specific rules and examples, see:
Can a Tenant Sue a Landlord in Small Claims Court in California?
How to File a Small Claims Case in California
The filing process generally follows these steps:
- Determine the correct court location
- Complete the required court forms
- File the forms and pay the filing fee
- Serve the defendant
- Prepare evidence and attend the hearing
Each step has specific rules and deadlines.
👉 For a full step-by-step walkthrough with forms and examples, see:
How to File a Small Claims Case in California (2026) – Step-by-Step Guide
Filing Fees and Court Costs
Filing fees depend on the amount you are claiming:
| Claim Amount | Filing Fee |
| $1,500 or less | $30 |
| $1,500.01 – $5,000 | $50 |
| Over $5,000 | $75 |
Additional costs may include service of process fees and certified mail charges. In some cases, the judge may order the losing party to reimburse these costs.
How Long Does a Small Claims Case Take?
Most California small claims cases follow this general timeline:
- Filing to hearing: 30–70 days
- Decision issued: Often the same day or within a few weeks
- Judgment enforcement (if needed): Varies by case
👉 A detailed timeline is explained here:
How Long Does a Small Claims Case Take in California?
What Evidence Do You Need?
Evidence plays a critical role in small claims court. Common types include:
- Written contracts or agreements
- Receipts, invoices, or bank records
- Photos or videos
- Text messages or emails
- Witness testimony
Organizing evidence clearly and presenting it concisely can significantly affect the outcome.
👉 See a full checklist here:
Evidence Needed When Suing a Business in Small Claims Court
What Happens After the Judge Makes a Decision?
If the judge rules in your favor, you receive a judgment stating how much the other party owes. However, the court does not collect the money for you.
If the defendant does not pay voluntarily, you may need to take additional enforcement steps.
👉 Learn your options here:
What If the Defendant Doesn’t Pay After Small Claims Court in California?
Can You Appeal a Small Claims Decision?
- A defendant may appeal a small claims judgment
- A plaintiff generally cannot appeal
Appeals are limited and must be filed within strict deadlines.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need a lawyer for small claims court?
No. Lawyers are generally not allowed to represent parties at the hearing.
Can I file online?
Some California counties allow online filing. Availability depends on the court.
Can I sue someone who lives in another county?
Yes, but venue rules determine where the case must be filed.
Can I recover court costs?
In many cases, yes, if the judge orders it.
What if I lose my case?
You may be ordered to pay the judgment amount and possibly court costs.
Related California Small Claims Guides
- How to File a Small Claims Case in California (2026)
- How Much Can You Claim in California Small Claims Court?
- Can a Tenant Sue a Landlord in Small Claims Court in California?
- What If the Defendant Doesn’t Pay After Small Claims Court in California?
Final Thoughts
California small claims court offers a practical way to resolve disputes without the expense and complexity of traditional litigation. By understanding the rules, limits, and process, you can better decide whether small claims court is the right option for your situation.
This guide is intended to provide general legal information, not legal advice. Court procedures may vary by county, and individual cases can differ.
Author Bio
Emily Carter, J.D., focuses on landlord–tenant disputes and small claims court procedures in California. She helps renters and property owners understand their legal options clearly and realistically. Emily’s goal is to make the legal process approachable and stress-free, giving Californians confidence every step of the way.
