Overview

Filing a small claims case in Florida requires paying a filing fee set by state law and local county clerks. These fees fund court administration and vary slightly depending on the amount you are claiming. Florida’s small claims process, governed by the Florida Small Claims Rules and Chapters 34 and 28 of the Florida Statutes, allows individuals and businesses to sue for money damages up to $8,000 (excluding court costs, interest, and attorney’s fees). The filing fee you pay at the beginning ensures that your case is entered on the docket and scheduled for a pretrial conference. Knowing exactly how much to pay—and how to reduce or waive fees if you qualify—prevents rejection of your filing and helps you budget realistically for your case.

Who Benefits and Who Can File

Small claims filing fees apply to anyone who starts a small claims lawsuit—typically a consumer, landlord, contractor, or small business seeking money owed. Whether you are an individual suing for an unpaid deposit or a company enforcing an invoice, you are the plaintiff and must pay the initial court fee. The defendant pays no fee unless they counterclaim. Low-income litigants may request fee waivers, allowing them to proceed without payment by filing an Application for Determination of Civil Indigency with the clerk. This keeps the court accessible for all Floridians regardless of financial status.

Benefits of Understanding Filing Fees

• Prevents filing delays caused by underpayment or missing documents.
• Helps you decide whether to file in small claims or county civil court.
• Allows accurate budgeting for service of process, mediation, and judgment collection.
• Enables qualified applicants to seek fee waivers or installment payments.

Step-by-Step Process

Step 1: Check your claim amount and court limits

Before paying any filing fee, you must confirm that your claim properly belongs in the small claims division. Florida’s small claims courts are designed for straightforward monetary disputes up to $8,000, exclusive of interest, court costs, or attorney’s fees. This “principal amount” threshold is absolute—if your main claim exceeds $8,000, the clerk will reject it or reassign it to county or circuit civil court. The reason is efficiency: small claims procedures omit complex discovery, pretrial motions, and jury trials, making them faster and cheaper but limited in scope.

Begin by calculating your actual damages. Review contracts, invoices, estimates, or canceled checks to determine the total owed. Only include tangible, documentable losses—do not add speculative items like emotional distress or lost business opportunities. If you believe the other party owes you $9,200, decide whether to voluntarily cap your claim at $8,000 to stay in small claims. Many plaintiffs choose this route because small claims cases are typically resolved within 60–90 days, while county civil cases can take a year or more and cost thousands in additional fees.

Next, verify that your claim seeks money damages only. Small claims courts cannot issue injunctions or specific performance orders. For instance, they cannot order a contractor to finish work or a landlord to repair property—they can only award money for breach or damage. Likewise, eviction actions, replevin (return of property), or foreclosure proceedings must be filed separately under different rules. Keeping your claim to a clear monetary dispute avoids jurisdictional dismissal.

Once your amount and claim type are confirmed, consult Chapter 34, Florida Statutes, which authorizes county courts to handle small claims. Cross-check your calculation with the current county clerk’s fee schedule. Clerks classify filings into tiers: up to $500, $501–$2,500, and $2,501–$8,000. Your claim’s dollar range directly dictates the filing fee. The lower the tier, the lower your upfront cost. This makes accuracy essential—underestimating might underpay the fee and delay your case, while overstating may push you outside the division entirely.

If your case involves multiple counts (e.g., several unpaid invoices), total the principal sums together. If the combined total exceeds $8,000, you must remove or waive part of the claim to qualify. Similarly, if you are suing multiple defendants jointly, the overall claim—not per defendant—controls jurisdiction. Document your math in a short note; many judges appreciate a clear damages breakdown in your Statement of Claim.

Finally, reflect strategically on collectability. Even if your case qualifies for small claims, assess whether the defendant can actually pay if you win. A judgment against a defunct business or unemployed individual may have little practical value. Florida allows judgments to remain enforceable for up to 20 years, but recovery depends on existing wages or assets. By checking amount, claim type, and financial reality early, you ensure the filing fee you pay actually advances a recoverable case.

Step 2: Review Florida’s small claims fee schedule

Every Florida county follows the same statutory structure for small claims filing fees but may add minor surcharges. The core authority is §34.041 and §28.241, Florida Statutes, which empower clerks of court to charge graduated fees based on the claim’s dollar range. These fees are critical—they fund courthouse operations, mediation programs, and clerk staffing that make small claims accessible to the public.

As of 2025, the statewide base fees are generally:

• $55 for claims up to $500;
• $80 for claims $501 to $2,500;
• $175 for claims $2,501 to $8,000.

Beyond this, most counties add modest administrative surcharges:

• $10 for each summons issued;
• $1 per page for certified copies;
• $2 technology or records modernization fee (in some counties);
• Optional $15–$20 mailing charge if the clerk handles service by certified mail.

To confirm your exact total, visit your local clerk’s website or call before filing. Examples:

• Miami-Dade County: around $185 total (includes summons issuance).
• Hillsborough County: about $180 plus $2 per extra defendant.
• Leon County: $175 flat for claims over $2,500.

You can usually pay in cash, credit, debit, money order, or through the statewide e-portal (eFile.FLCourts.gov). Online payments sometimes carry a 3% processing fee. Always bring or print the receipt showing case number and amount; this serves as proof if there is a later accounting error.

Keep in mind that the filing fee is non-refundable—even if you later dismiss or settle. The court retains the fee for docketing and administrative time. However, if you win, you can ask the judge to reimburse these costs as part of your final judgment. To do that, retain every receipt. Florida small claims judges routinely award “taxable costs” including filing, service, certified-copy, and mediation fees to the prevailing party.

When calculating your total expected expense, don’t overlook ancillary costs like process service ($40–$60 per defendant) and optional mediation fees ($60–$120 split between parties). A well-prepared litigant treats these as part of the total investment, not surprises later.

Finally, understand the timing: your case is not officially “filed” until the clerk accepts the correct fee. Submissions missing even $10 can be rejected. If paying online, wait for confirmation—not just submission. The timestamp on the clerk’s acceptance determines your filing date for limitation-period purposes. Checking the official fee schedule in advance ensures you pay the right amount the first time and keeps your claim on track toward pretrial scheduling.

Step 3: Determine whether you qualify for a fee waiver

Florida law ensures that inability to pay never bars access to court. If you cannot afford the filing fee, you may apply for a civil indigency determination under § 57.082, Florida Statutes. This process, handled directly by the clerk, allows qualifying litigants to have their filing fees deferred or waived entirely. The goal is fairness—justice should depend on the merits of the case, not a person’s wallet.

To apply, request the form titled Application for Determination of Civil Indigency from your county clerk or download it from flcourts.gov. You will disclose household income, employment, government benefits, and monthly obligations such as rent, utilities, or child support. The clerk uses a uniform statewide formula tied to the federal poverty guidelines: generally, if your household income is at or below 200 percent of those guidelines, or if paying the fee would cause substantial hardship, you qualify. The review occurs immediately—often while you wait at the counter.

Accuracy matters. Provide pay stubs, benefit letters, or tax returns to verify income. Omitting information or exaggerating hardship can lead to denial or later reversal. If approved, you will receive a signed order allowing the clerk to accept your filing without prepayment. The case proceeds normally; the fee becomes a lien collectible later only if you recover money or your finances improve. If denied, you may request review by a county judge within 20 days.

Applicants receiving public assistance—SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, TANF—are almost always approved automatically. Students or retirees with minimal income can also qualify. Self-employed individuals should attach a brief statement of average monthly earnings and expenses. Remember that household income includes everyone living in the home who contributes financially; if your partner or parent pays the bills, their income counts.

For electronic filers, the same form may be uploaded through the Florida E-Filing Portal. The system routes it to the clerk for review before payment processing. Check email notifications carefully; if the waiver is denied electronically, you must pay within 10 days to preserve your filing date.

A fee waiver removes the barrier to entry but not necessarily later costs. You may still be responsible for sheriff service, mediation, or copying charges unless separately waived. Keep copies of your indigency order—some counties require you to show it each time you request a free certified copy or subpoena.

Ultimately, the indigency process protects the constitutional right of court access for all Floridians. Taking fifteen minutes to complete it properly ensures your case moves forward without delay and demonstrates good faith to the court that you are acting responsibly within your means.

Step 4: Prepare payment or waiver documentation before filing

Once you know the correct fee or have an approved waiver, gather all required documents before approaching the clerk. Organization at this stage prevents rejection or multiple trips. Assemble your Statement of Claim, any Summons to Appear, and your payment instrument or indigency order into a single packet. If filing multiple defendants, include additional summons copies for each and budget extra per-defendant service charges.

Most clerks accept payment by cash, debit, or money order; many also take credit cards with a small convenience fee (usually 2–3 percent). Personal checks are rarely accepted. If paying in person, confirm hours and location—some counties process small-claims filings only at designated branches. For example, Orange County requires filing at the downtown Orlando courthouse, while Pinellas County allows branch filings in Clearwater and St. Petersburg.

If filing online through the statewide portal, upload PDFs in the order requested: Statement of Claim → Summons → Supporting Exhibits → Fee or Waiver. Double-check that every document bears a legible signature. E-filings without signatures or with unreadable attachments are the most common reason for rejection. After submission, monitor your portal dashboard; only when the clerk’s status shows “accepted” does your case officially exist. The acceptance timestamp becomes your filing date, critical for statute-of-limitations purposes.

Attach proof of payment to your records—either a receipt stamped “FILED” or the e-portal confirmation page showing the transaction number and amount. Keep a digital copy as backup. Label each file clearly (“Receipt – Filing Fee $175 – 5/6/2025”). Courts appreciate litigants who can produce organized evidence of compliance.

If you obtained an indigency waiver, bring two extra copies. One stays in the file; one should be shown to the deputy clerk issuing your summonses so they can mark them “No Fee.” Without that notation, you could be incorrectly billed later for service or copies.

Timing matters. File early in the week to secure quicker scheduling of the pretrial conference; dockets fill fast. Arriving near closing time risks incomplete intake or delayed entry until the next business day. Submitting complete, legible, and correctly paid filings ensures the clerk can assign a case number, issue summonses, and set a hearing date—usually within 30 days. This diligence also signals to the judge that you respect procedure, which can set a constructive tone for the remainder of your small-claims case.

Step 5: Include ancillary costs in your budget

The filing fee is only the beginning of your financial planning for a small claims case in Florida. Many self-represented litigants underestimate the true “all-in” cost of pursuing a claim, which can include process service, document preparation, mediation, copies, and post-judgment collection. Building a full budget early prevents unpleasant surprises and positions you to recover allowable costs if you win. Under Florida Statutes § 34.041 and Rule 7.175 of the Florida Small Claims Rules, prevailing parties may request reimbursement of court costs, but reimbursement is limited to amounts that were actually and properly spent.

Start by listing fixed costs. Every case requires a filing fee, typically between $55 and $175 depending on the claim amount, and a summons issuance fee of $10 per defendant. Next, include service of process—the cost for a sheriff or certified process server to deliver the lawsuit to each defendant. This usually ranges from $40 to $60 per attempt, though rural counties can charge slightly more. If the defendant lives out of county, you will pay the receiving sheriff’s rate plus mailing costs. Service is mandatory; without it, your case cannot proceed to judgment, so allocate enough for at least two attempts in case the first fails.

Add in copying and certification costs. Clerks charge about $1 per page for certified copies and $2 per page for exemplified (authenticated) copies used in enforcement. Having certified copies of the final judgment is often required for wage garnishments, liens, or appeals, so budget $10–$15 for these later steps. Electronic filers can download unofficial copies at no charge, but certified hard copies still incur fees.

Include mediation expenses. Nearly every Florida small-claims case is referred to mandatory mediation before trial under Rule 7.090. While many circuits provide volunteer mediators at no cost, some charge modest administrative fees—typically $60 to $120 shared equally by both parties. Mediation is often where cases settle, saving you later trial expenses, so consider it part of your investment rather than an optional cost.

You should also anticipate potential post-judgment costs if you prevail. These include recording the judgment lien (about $10 for county recording, plus $1 per page), writs of garnishment or execution ($85 to $115 each), and sheriff levy fees if you need property seized or sold. While you can recover many of these through court order, you must pay them upfront. Keeping receipts and precise records allows you to add these costs to your “Motion to Tax Costs” later.

For complex cases, factor in minor discretionary expenses: notary services, postage for certified mail, parking or transit for courthouse appearances, and optional exhibit printing. A typical uncontested case might total $250 to $350 from start to finish, while a fully litigated or enforced case can reach $500 to $700. Treat these costs as a project budget, updating it as the case progresses.

Finally, maintain transparency and documentation. Courts favor plaintiffs who present an organized accounting of expenditures when requesting reimbursement. A simple spreadsheet with columns for “Date,” “Item,” “Vendor,” “Amount,” and “Purpose” is sufficient. Label each receipt with your case number. By forecasting and documenting ancillary costs, you maintain financial control and preserve the right to recover legitimate expenses at judgment.

Step 6: Serve the defendant correctly and on time

After filing and paying the proper fees, the next major cost and procedural milestone is service of process. Florida law requires every defendant be formally notified of the lawsuit so they can appear and defend. This ensures due process and gives the judgment legal force. Without valid service, even the most perfectly filed case will stall or be dismissed. The governing rules are Florida Small Claims Rule 7.070 and Florida Rule of Civil Procedure 1.070.

There are several service methods. The most common is personal service—a sheriff’s deputy or certified process server hand-delivers the summons and Statement of Claim to the defendant. This costs around $40 to $60 per attempt, depending on the county. If the defendant is a business, service can be made on the registered agent or an authorized officer; you can confirm this name and address through the Florida Division of Corporations (Sunbiz) database. For individuals, use their residence or regular place of employment. Always provide the server with complete, accurate information: full name, address, phone, and any identifying details that aid delivery.

If personal service fails after diligent effort, the court may allow substitute or alternative service. Substitute service means leaving the papers with a competent adult living in the same household, then mailing another copy. Alternative service, such as by posting or publication, requires a motion and court approval under § 48.161–48.171 F.S. and should be used only as a last resort. Each attempt carries additional cost, so keeping the defendant’s address current saves money and time.

The server must complete and file a Return of Service—a sworn proof showing who was served, when, where, and how. File this promptly with the clerk; your pretrial conference cannot proceed without it. For business defendants, attach the printed Sunbiz page showing the agent’s name to prove proper service. Retain a copy for your records, as you will need it later if the defendant fails to appear and you request a default judgment.

Timing is critical. Florida small-claims courts generally schedule the pretrial conference 4–8 weeks after filing. You must complete service well before that date so the defendant receives notice at least 5 days in advance. If service is delayed, immediately file a motion to reschedule rather than risk dismissal for lack of timely notice. Plan backward from the pretrial date, giving your process server at least 2 weeks for multiple attempts.

A well-executed service step not only fulfills a legal requirement but also signals professionalism. Judges can easily tell when a plaintiff has taken care to serve promptly and document correctly. That diligence strengthens credibility if the defendant challenges jurisdiction or claims lack of notice. By investing modestly in proper service—clear instructions, follow-up communication, and timely filing—you ensure the court can hear your case on the merits without procedural setbacks.

Step 7: Attend the pretrial conference and understand mediation fees

Every Florida small claims case includes a pretrial conference, typically scheduled three to six weeks after filing. This short hearing, mandated by Rule 7.090 of the Florida Small Claims Rules, allows the judge to confirm service, identify settlement potential, and refer parties to mediation. Attendance is mandatory: failure to appear can result in dismissal (for plaintiffs) or default judgment (for defendants). Think of pretrial as the court’s triage center—its goal is to settle quickly or set clear boundaries for trial.

Arrive early with at least three items: (1) your case timeline, (2) proof of service, and (3) organized exhibits or receipts. Check in with the clerk and verify your case number. The judge will call several cases together; when your name is read, stand, announce “ready,” and approach when invited. The judge will first verify that service was completed correctly. If any defendant has not been served, you may be granted a continuance to perfect service, but repeated failures can lead to dismissal. This first few minutes determine whether your case moves forward or stalls.

If both sides appear, the court will refer you to mandatory mediation. Florida’s small claims system emphasizes alternative dispute resolution to save time and reduce costs. Most mediations occur immediately following the pretrial conference, usually in a side room with a certified mediator provided by the court. Some counties charge a modest fee—commonly $60 to $120 split evenly between the parties—though indigent litigants often qualify for a waiver. Mediation is confidential: nothing said can later be used at trial. You’ll discuss potential settlements, payment plans, or compromises under the mediator’s guidance.

If you reach agreement, the mediator drafts a Stipulation of Settlement for both parties to sign. The judge then reviews and approves it, entering it as an enforceable court order. Payment timelines, installment structures, or mutual dismissals should all be written precisely—clarity prevents future disputes. If partial agreement is reached, unresolved issues proceed to trial. If no agreement is reached, the mediator simply notes “impasse,” and the case returns to the judge for scheduling.

Pretrial also clarifies procedural logistics. The judge may issue simple discovery or exhibit deadlines (“Exchange documents by June 10,” “Trial July 2 at 10 a.m.”). This stage is where you can ask practical questions: “Do you require paper exhibits?” “May I bring photos digitally?” Clerks appreciate when pro se litigants confirm expectations early, reducing future confusion.

When you leave, confirm all deadlines in writing on your copy of the pretrial notice. Failing to follow instructions can result in sanctions or exclusion of evidence. Finally, note any additional fees discussed at mediation—such as installment-payment handling charges or recording fees for stipulated judgments—and include them in your post-trial cost ledger. Understanding pretrial mediation procedures and associated small costs (copying, parking, notarization) transforms what many see as a formality into a productive opportunity to resolve disputes affordably and efficiently.

Step 8: Prepare for trial and understand potential trial-related costs

If mediation fails, your case advances to a bench trial before a county judge. Florida small-claims trials are deliberately streamlined—most last 30 to 60 minutes—but preparation still matters. Judges expect litigants to present concise, chronological facts backed by tangible proof. Organizing early minimizes last-minute expenses and ensures you recover any eligible costs.

Begin by assembling your evidence packet. Include contracts, invoices, photos, receipts, repair estimates, correspondence, and witness statements. Bring three copies of each: one for you, one for the court, and one for the defendant. Printing typically costs $0.15 to $0.25 per page, so budget accordingly. Label exhibits clearly (Ex. A, Ex. B, etc.) and number pages. Use a binder or folder rather than loose papers. Courts often reject evidence that is illegible or disorganized.

Witnesses are another potential cost. If someone is unwilling to appear voluntarily, request a subpoena at least two weeks before trial. The clerk charges $7 per subpoena, and you must pay a statutory witness fee of $5 per day plus $0.06 per mile one way, delivered with the subpoena by the sheriff or a certified server. Failing to tender the fee voids the subpoena. Witnesses are essential when your testimony alone cannot prove key facts, such as expert assessments of damage or confirmation of work quality.

Prepare your trial outline: one page listing (1) issue statement, (2) key facts with exhibit references, and (3) the exact amount sought. Judges prefer plain-language storytelling to legal jargon. Example opening: “I paid $1,200 for roof repair on March 15. The contractor did not perform despite multiple promises; I requested a refund April 25 that was never paid.” That 20-second summary sets the tone. Rehearse out loud, timing yourself under two minutes for the opening and five minutes for the full presentation.

Expect minimal courtroom formality but follow decorum. Dress neatly, silence phones, and stand when addressing the judge. Bring a pen and paper to note rulings or orders. If you expect to present photos or videos digitally, confirm beforehand that the courtroom can display them—some require USB drives; others accept email submission to the clerk. Arriving prepared avoids technical-delay frustration.

Financially, plan for incidental trial-day expenses: parking ($5–$10), additional copying if the judge requests paper exhibits, and optional transcription if you anticipate appeal ($4–$6 per page). If you win, request that the judgment include “taxable costs” explicitly so you can recover your filing, service, and witness fees. Judges generally grant these automatically when documentation is provided. If you lose, the court may order you to pay the opponent’s taxable costs but not their attorney fees unless you signed a contract permitting them.

Your composure at trial often influences perception as much as your evidence. Stay calm, courteous, and factual even if provoked. When the judge rules, listen carefully. If judgment is entered in your favor, ask about the next step—obtaining a certified copy and collecting payment. By combining solid preparation with respect for process, you maximize both your credibility and your return on the fees you’ve invested in pursuing justice.

Step 9: Receive the judgment and understand post-hearing costs

Once the judge announces a decision, the court will enter a Final Judgment. This document formally states who won, the exact dollar amount owed, and which party—if any—owes court costs. Understanding this phase is vital because small-claims cases often shift from courtroom advocacy to paperwork precision. A judgment is not money in hand; it is a court-recognized debt that must be enforced through additional steps and, often, extra costs.

Immediately after the hearing, ask the clerk for a certified copy of the judgment. This usually costs around $1 per page plus $2 for certification. You will need certified copies for nearly every post-judgment action—such as recording liens or pursuing garnishments. Some counties allow digital certified copies through the Florida Court Clerks & Comptrollers portal for a small convenience fee.

If you prevailed, the judgment should include your reimbursable costs: filing fees, service of process, witness fees, and mediation charges. If the judge does not automatically include them, file a Motion to Tax Costs within 30 days, attaching receipts for each expense. Be organized—judges rarely award vague or undocumented claims. Most courts approve these quickly if paperwork is neat and amounts match statutory limits under § 34.041 F.S..

Sometimes the defendant will voluntarily pay or offer a payment plan immediately after the hearing. If this happens, insist on written terms specifying amounts, due dates, and methods (cash, check, or online). Once full payment is received, file a Satisfaction of Judgment with the clerk (usually a $10 filing fee) so the public record reflects closure. This protects both parties from later collection disputes.

If you lose the case, review the judgment carefully. The court may have ruled against you on the merits or dismissed your claim for procedural reasons. You have 30 days to file a Notice of Appeal to the circuit court, but you must pay an appellate filing fee (around $300) or apply again for indigency. Consider the cost-benefit carefully; small-claims appeals are rarely cost-effective unless a clear legal error occurred.

For both winners and losers, it’s crucial to track deadlines and post-judgment paperwork. Judges may also issue conditional orders such as deadlines for document exchange or compliance with settlement terms. Failing to meet them can trigger sanctions or dismissals. Keep a physical and digital file of all post-trial documents, payment receipts, and correspondence with the clerk.

Finally, if your judgment remains unpaid after 30 days, prepare to enforce it. At this point, you transition from trial participant to creditor. Enforcement options include recording the judgment, garnishing wages or bank accounts, or levying property. Each has associated costs—typically $85–$100 per writ—so plan accordingly. By mastering these financial and procedural details, you turn a piece of paper into actual recovery and close your small-claims journey efficiently and confidently.

Step 10: Enforce and collect your judgment

Winning a judgment is only half the journey—the true success lies in collecting what the court awarded. Florida law empowers you to use a range of enforcement tools, but each carries procedural rules, waiting periods, and additional fees. Understanding these early ensures you recover efficiently without wasting money or jeopardizing compliance with legal process.

The simplest path is voluntary payment. Start by mailing or emailing the defendant a copy of the signed judgment with a brief, courteous demand letter. State the total due, acceptable payment methods, and a specific deadline (e.g., “Payment in full by 30 days from receipt”). Many defendants comply once they realize the judgment is official and enforceable. If partial payment is offered, insist on written acknowledgment, noting remaining balance and due dates. Keep all correspondence for your records.

If no payment arrives, move to formal enforcement. Step one is recording the judgment lien. File a certified copy with the county clerk where the debtor owns property—this costs about $10 plus $1 per page. Recording creates a lien on any real estate they own in that county, valid for 10 years and renewable once. You may also record the judgment with the Florida Department of State to attach to personal property such as vehicles or business assets.

Next, consider a writ of garnishment to intercept wages or bank funds. The filing fee is around $85, and you’ll pay $40–$60 for sheriff service. Garnishments must strictly follow Chapter 77, Florida Statutes. Employers or banks served with the writ must respond within 20 days. If funds are available, the court may order payment to you directly. However, certain wages and accounts (such as head-of-household wages or joint accounts) are exempt, so research exemptions before spending money on this route.

A writ of execution allows seizure of tangible property—vehicles, equipment, or other non-exempt assets—by the sheriff. This involves higher upfront costs, sometimes exceeding $150 plus towing or storage. If the property sells, the sheriff deducts costs from the proceeds before paying you. Because this route is costly, use it only when you have confirmed the debtor owns valuable, non-exempt property.

For debtors with unknown assets, file a Judgment Debtor Examination (also called “Order to Show Assets”). This compels the debtor to appear in court and disclose income, accounts, and property. There’s usually a $25–$50 motion fee plus service charges, but it can uncover hidden recovery paths. Judges can even hold debtors in contempt for ignoring asset-disclosure orders.

As you collect, update a ledger showing the judgment amount, accrued interest (at Florida’s statutory rate, updated annually by the Chief Financial Officer), and each payment or cost deducted. Once paid in full, file a Satisfaction of Judgment—a brief form confirming the debt is settled. This protects you from future claims and closes the public record.

Judgments in Florida remain enforceable for 20 years. Even if the debtor cannot pay immediately, calendar periodic checks (e.g., every six months) to review property or employment changes. Over time, many creditors recover through persistence rather than aggression. Enforcing a judgment responsibly—tracking costs, respecting exemptions, and documenting every step—ensures your investment of time and filing fees ultimately yields tangible results.

Costs Associated

In total, most plaintiffs spend between $175 and $300 through judgment, depending on claim size and service method. If you win, you can ask the judge to include your filing, service, and certified-copy fees in the judgment. Always bring receipts as proof of payment. Some counties permit e-payment or installment options, but final acceptance still depends on timely full payment or indigency approval.

Time Required

Fee payment is immediate upon filing. If you apply for indigency, the clerk usually rules the same day. Once accepted, your case receives a case number and a pretrial conference date—often within 4 to 6 weeks. Delays typically arise from rejected payments, missing signatures, or incomplete waiver applications. Filing early in the week helps secure earlier docket placement.

Limitations and Risks

• Filing fees are non-refundable, even if you later dismiss the case.
• Partial payments are rarely accepted without prior arrangement.
• Fee schedules can change annually—outdated information may cause rejection.
• Improper indigency claims can result in later assessments or collection actions.

Resources

• Florida Association of Court Clerks and Comptrollers
• Florida State Courts
• MyFloridaCounty Payment Portal
• Florida E-Filing Portal
• Florida Department of Revenue – Poverty Guidelines