Overview

A New York small claim is a simplified court process that allows individuals and small businesses to recover modest sums of money without hiring an attorney. The goal is quick, low-cost justice for ordinary disputes—unpaid rent, minor property damage, defective goods, or unreturned deposits. The process is intentionally informal: pleadings are short, discovery is limited, and hearings are conversational. You file a claim with the court clerk, pay a small filing fee, and the court mails notice to the defendant or authorizes personal service. After a brief hearing, a judge (or volunteer arbitrator) issues a judgment that can be enforced through wage garnishment or other collection methods.

Every part of New York has a forum for small claims. In New York City, it’s the Civil Court’s Small Claims Part; in other cities, it’s the City Court; and in rural areas, it’s the Town or Village Justice Court. Dollar limits differ: up to $10,000 in NYC Civil Court, $5,000 in City Courts, and $3,000 in Town or Village Courts. Filing is simple and inexpensive—typically $15 if the claim is $1,000 or less and $20 if it’s more than $1,000 (NYC/City Courts), or $10/$15 in Town and Village Courts. The clerk can help you complete forms and will schedule your hearing date immediately. You can represent yourself; attorneys are optional.

Because the system is designed for speed, evidence rules are relaxed. You can bring receipts, photos, messages, and witnesses; judges focus on credibility and fairness rather than technicalities. If you win, you receive a money judgment you can enforce statewide. If you lose, you can appeal within 30 days. The process is accessible, affordable, and one of the most common ways New Yorkers resolve everyday civil disputes without complex litigation.

Who Can Apply (Eligibility)

Anyone who has suffered a financial loss up to the jurisdictional limit can file a small claim in New York. That includes individuals, partnerships, and small businesses that are the real party in interest—the person or entity owed the money. You don’t have to live in the same county as the defendant, but you must file where the defendant either lives, works, or has a place of business. The court’s territorial rule ensures fairness: a Bronx claimant cannot drag a Nassau resident to Buffalo for a $200 dispute.

The plaintiff must be at least 18 years old. Parents or guardians may file on behalf of minors, and business entities can appear through an owner, officer, or authorized agent (no separate lawyer required). Defendants can be individuals, businesses, or landlords. If the dispute involves a government agency, small claims is usually not appropriate—claims against municipalities must follow special “notice of claim” procedures in Supreme Court or Court of Claims.

Typical eligible disputes include:

• Unpaid loans between friends or relatives.
• Security-deposit disputes with landlords.
• Property damage from accidents or contractor negligence.
• Unpaid wages or invoices under $10,000 (when not governed by special labor law procedures).
• Defective consumer goods or incomplete services.

What you cannot recover in small claims: punitive damages, pain and suffering, or injunctions (orders to do or stop doing something). The remedy is purely monetary. You also cannot file on behalf of another person unless you are a legal representative. You must state the amount sought and briefly explain why you are owed the money.

Foreign corporations or out-of-state businesses may be sued if they transact business within New York, but service rules tighten: personal service through an authorized agent or office is required. Always verify the defendant’s exact legal name and address; incorrect naming is a leading cause of dismissal or unenforceable judgments. Clerks can advise on how to check business registration via the NY Department of State database.

Because the process is self-help-oriented, the state provides multilingual instructions and form packets. Every county’s court website lists local hours, fee schedules, and how to request disability or language accommodation. The accessibility and simplicity of small claims make it ideal for self-represented litigants seeking practical justice without heavy cost.

Benefits of Understanding the Timeline

Small-claims success often depends less on argument and more on timing and organization. Knowing the sequence—from filing to hearing to judgment—helps you act promptly and avoid procedural traps that delay payment.

First, the filing triggers the clock: once you pay the fee and file your claim, the clerk mails a Notice of Claim to the defendant (or authorizes you to serve personally). The hearing date is usually 3 to 8 weeks away, depending on the county. If mail service fails, you must arrange personal service before the hearing; otherwise, the judge can dismiss or adjourn your case. Understanding this window lets you track the status and re-serve quickly if mail is returned.

Second, preparation time is short. Evidence—receipts, photos, repair estimates—should be organized immediately. Because you cannot file lengthy discovery motions, what you bring on hearing day is what the judge sees. Keeping a tight timeline ensures your witnesses are available and your documents are complete.

Finally, judgment enforcement is its own phase. Once you win, the debtor has 30 days to pay voluntarily. After that, you can file an Execution with the Sheriff or City Marshal. Knowing when those 30 days expire prevents lost time and interest. Understanding the timeline is therefore a financial and strategic advantage: it keeps your claim alive, your evidence ready, and your enforcement timely.

Step 1: Determine Where to File and Confirm Jurisdiction

Choosing the correct court is the foundation of every small-claims case. New York’s three-tier structure divides jurisdiction by geography and dollar amount. Filing in the wrong venue wastes time and money, and a judge can dismiss a claim without prejudice if venue is improper.

Start by locating where the defendant lives, works, or does business. That county (or city, town, or village) is your venue. You may file in NYC Civil Court if the defendant resides or works within any of the five boroughs; otherwise, use the City Court in medium-sized municipalities or the Town/Village Justice Court for rural areas.

Next, confirm your claim’s dollar limit. NYC Civil Court handles up to $10,000, City Courts up to $5,000, and Town/Village Courts up to $3,000. Splitting a larger claim into multiple smaller ones is prohibited—you must file the entire claim in one action or choose a higher court.

If multiple defendants are involved, ensure at least one resides or operates in that jurisdiction; otherwise, you may need to file separate suits. For corporations, use their registered office address on file with the NY Department of State. For landlords, use the address of the building or management office.

Before filing, confirm the court’s filing hours, accepted payment methods (cash, money order, certified check), and whether it offers online intake (some City Courts allow limited e-filing). Most clerks will help you verify names and addresses but cannot provide legal advice.

Establishing jurisdiction first saves downstream headaches. A valid venue ensures your judgment is enforceable statewide and that the defendant cannot easily move to vacate it later. In small claims, precision in this first step protects your effort and the court’s time.

Step 2: Calculate the Filing Fee and Prepare Your Statement of Claim

Filing fees in small claims are deliberately low to keep access open. The amount depends on both your court level and claim size.

• NYC Civil Court & City Courts: $15 if ≤ $1,000; $20 if > $1,000 (up to limit).
• Town & Village Justice Courts: $10 if ≤ $1,000; $15 if > $1,000 (up to limit).

If you cannot afford the fee, you may apply to proceed as a “poor person.” The judge can waive the cost upon proof of financial hardship. Filing fees are paid to the clerk at submission; you’ll receive a stamped receipt and hearing date.

Your Statement of Claim is a brief narrative of what happened, who owes you money, and the exact amount sought. Keep it under a few paragraphs—facts only, no legal jargon. Example: “On June 10, 2025, I paid $600 to ABC Auto for repairs that were not completed. I request a refund of $600.” Include any relevant dates, addresses, and item descriptions. Accuracy here speeds review and minimizes adjournments.

Bring or attach supporting evidence (receipts, photos, contracts). Clerks usually don’t accept bulky exhibits at filing, but you’ll need them for the hearing. If you have witnesses, list their names. Some courts allow you to attach a short summary sheet of key facts—concise, legible handwriting or typed text helps the judge immediately grasp the dispute.

Lastly, double-check your defendant’s name and address. For individuals, use full legal name (no nicknames). For companies, use the corporate or DBA name from the NY Department of State record. Serving “ABC Plumbing” when the legal entity is “ABC Plumbing LLC” can void service. Spending a few minutes verifying this data before you pay avoids losing your filing fee to a dismissed case.

Step 3: File the Claim with the Clerk and Obtain Your Hearing Date

Bring your completed Statement of Claim and the filing fee to the clerk’s office during posted hours. Clerks are legally permitted to assist self-represented litigants with form completion and procedural questions but cannot give legal advice. When you file, the clerk will assign a claim number, enter it in the docket, and stamp your paperwork with the hearing date.

Most New York small-claims hearings are scheduled within 3 to 8 weeks of filing. In NYC, the court mails the Notice of Claim to the defendant by certified and first-class mail simultaneously. If the mail is returned as undeliverable, you must arrange personal service (using a friend over 18, a process server, or a marshal). Outside NYC, the court may require you to serve immediately after filing; confirm local practice. Mailing fees, if any, are usually included in the filing fee but can vary slightly by county.

Keep copies of everything: your receipt, stamped claim form, and any mailing receipts. These are your proof that the case was properly started. If you discover later that the address was wrong, act fast—file an amendment with the clerk and request new service. Courts prefer prompt corrections to ensure defendants receive due process.

If the defendant does not appear on the hearing date and service was valid, you can request a default judgment. If they appear and deny liability, the judge or arbitrator will hear both sides that day or set another date for evidence. Understanding the service process and timelines ensures that your case reaches the merits instead of being postponed for technical reasons.

By completing these first three steps—choosing the correct venue, calculating the fee, and filing accurately—you lay the foundation for a smooth small-claims experience. Each action protects your right to collect what you’re owed quickly and affordably.

Step 4: Ensure Proper Service of the Defendant

Service—the formal delivery of the Notice of Claim to the defendant—is the linchpin of due process in New York’s small-claims system. Without proper service, your entire case stalls or risks dismissal, no matter how valid your grievance. The objective is simple: to make sure the defendant receives fair notice of what you are claiming, when the hearing will occur, and what rights they have to respond. But the method, timing, and documentation of service vary slightly between New York City, City Courts, and Town or Village Courts, so understanding the details is essential.

In NYC Civil Court, the clerk usually takes the first step by mailing the Notice of Claim to the defendant by both certified and first-class mail. If either envelope is returned undeliverable or unclaimed, the clerk notifies you, and it becomes your responsibility to arrange personal service. You may hire a licensed process server, marshal, or any non-party adult over 18 who is not involved in the case. That person must physically hand the papers to the defendant or a suitable substitute (someone of reasonable age and discretion at the defendant’s home or workplace). Afterward, they must complete an Affidavit of Service, detailing who was served, when, where, and how. That affidavit must be filed with the court before your hearing date to prove valid service.

In City Courts outside NYC, the process may differ. Some clerks still mail notices; others require you to handle service yourself from the start. You may choose certified mail with return receipt requested or personal service. Each county posts its own local instructions—never assume the method used in one city applies statewide. For Town and Village Courts, mailing is often done by the clerk for a modest additional postage fee, but if the mail bounces, you must switch to personal service quickly. Always confirm the exact deadline: many courts require service to be completed at least five days before the hearing. Failure to meet that deadline can cause adjournment or dismissal without prejudice.

Documentation is everything. Keep copies of mailing receipts, signed green cards, or the Affidavit of Service. Bring them to court in case the judge asks. If you hired a professional process server, verify that they filed proof of service with the court; sometimes you must file it yourself. Missing paperwork is a common reason cases get delayed. Equally important is the accuracy of the defendant’s name and address. Use official sources—business filings, lease agreements, or paystubs—to verify spelling and location. Even one digit off in an address can void service.

Safety and courtesy matter. Never attempt to serve someone if you fear confrontation; use law enforcement or a marshal instead. If the defendant tries to evade service, keep a record of attempts. Judges look favorably on documented diligence. In extreme cases, you can request “substituted service,” such as posting and mailing, but that requires court approval. Finally, remember that proper service not only informs the defendant but also triggers their right to appear. By ensuring this step is done correctly, you protect your own credibility and ensure the court can move straight to hearing your case rather than debating procedural defects.

Step 5: Prepare Evidence and Organize for the Hearing

Preparation transforms an ordinary small-claims case into a persuasive one. Because hearings are fast and informal—often ten to twenty minutes per side—you must present facts clearly, chronologically, and with supporting proof that speaks for itself. Begin by reviewing your Statement of Claim. Every sentence should correspond to something you can show: a receipt, contract, message, photograph, or witness testimony. Judges base decisions on credible documentation and demeanor more than legal technicalities.

Start with a timeline. List each key event—agreement date, payment, breach, communication, and loss amount. Attach evidence under each entry. Use a simple numbering system: Exhibit 1 (Contract), Exhibit 2 (Invoice), Exhibit 3 (Text Message Screenshot), and so on. Make three complete sets—one for you, one for the judge, and one for the defendant. Staple or clip each bundle neatly; loose papers delay proceedings. Label photographs on the back with date, location, and short captions. If digital, print them with timestamps visible. For texts or emails, include sender/receiver identifiers and dates. Avoid flooding the court with irrelevant material; clarity beats volume.

If you have witnesses, contact them early. Ask them to focus on what they personally saw or heard. Courts dislike hearsay or speculation. For example, “I watched the contractor leave without finishing the work” carries weight; “She told me later he didn’t finish” does not. Witnesses should dress appropriately, bring ID, and arrive on time. If they cannot attend, obtain a short notarized statement and bring it as supporting documentation, though live testimony is stronger. In NYC, some courts allow remote testimony with prior approval—file a written request if necessary.

Prepare your oral summary. Plan a two-minute opening explaining the essence: “I paid for a service that wasn’t delivered; here are my receipts and photos.” Rehearse so you can stay calm under questions. Judges appreciate direct, respectful communication. Avoid emotional rants; stick to facts and numbers. If the defendant denies liability, calmly refer to your exhibits: “As shown in Exhibit 3, the text message confirms acknowledgment of debt.” Clarity and composure project credibility.

Bring a pen, notepad, and folder. Check whether your court allows devices or requires paper copies. Arrive 30 minutes early to review the docket. When your case is called, stand, state your name, and hand exhibits to the bailiff or clerk as instructed. Organization here signals seriousness. Remember, the judge’s goal is fairness—your job is to make fairness obvious through evidence, not emotion.

Finally, prepare for settlement possibilities. Some courts offer mediation or volunteer arbitrators before the hearing. If you can settle on the spot for an amount you find acceptable, do so; the clerk will record the agreement. Settlements save time and preserve goodwill. If not, proceed confidently, knowing that your preparation sets you apart from the unorganized litigant who arrives with a pile of crumpled papers. In small claims, preparation often wins the day.

Step 6: Attend the Hearing and Present Your Case

The hearing is the pivotal moment when preparation meets persuasion. It’s informal compared with other courts, but still a judicial proceeding where credibility and organization matter immensely. Dress neatly, arrive early, and check in with the clerk. Silence your phone. Bring your complete evidence binder and any witnesses. When the judge or arbitrator calls your name, step forward confidently.

In most New York small-claims parts, the judge invites each side to tell their story without strict adherence to evidentiary rules. Begin with a concise statement: who you are, what the claim is, and what amount you seek. Then walk through your evidence sequentially, using plain language. Hand exhibits to the judge or the bailiff when asked. Emphasize clarity: “On June 5, I paid $600 to repair my car; Exhibit 1 is the receipt.” Avoid legal jargon—judges prefer authentic, factual storytelling.

The defendant will respond and may present their own exhibits. Remain calm even if they misstate facts. When it’s your turn to rebut, point to documentation: “Exhibit 3 shows they acknowledged receiving payment.” Avoid arguing directly with the defendant; always address the judge. If you have witnesses, present them in logical order. Ask each to briefly confirm specific facts—time, place, and action. Judges discourage repetitive or irrelevant testimony, so pre-coach your witnesses to stay focused.

Expect the judge to ask clarifying questions. Answer directly—yes, no, or a short factual explanation. If you don’t know, say so honestly. Credibility outweighs perfection. If you need to refer to notes, do so calmly. Don’t interrupt the judge or opposing party. Maintain respectful tone even under provocation; hostility undermines otherwise strong cases.

After both sides finish, the judge may decide immediately or mail a decision later. If the matter goes before an arbitrator, you’ll often get an instant ruling. Arbitration decisions are binding unless both sides agree otherwise. Either way, listen carefully to any instructions. If you win, you’ll receive a written judgment specifying the amount owed and court costs. If you lose, you may file a notice of appeal within thirty days (shorter deadlines for Town/Village Courts—usually 30 days after service of judgment). Appeals require payment of filing fees and a transcript request.

Remember, decorum influences perception. Judges appreciate litigants who treat the court as a place of order, not confrontation. By presenting clearly, keeping calm, and substantiating every claim, you demonstrate respect for the process—and that respect often translates into favorable outcomes.

Step 7: Obtain and Enforce the Judgment

Winning a judgment is only half the battle; collecting it completes the victory. Once the court enters judgment in your favor, the defendant becomes a judgment debtor and has 30 days to pay voluntarily. Many comply quickly once an order is entered—especially in NYC, where unpaid judgments appear in public records—but others may delay. Understanding enforcement options ensures you actually receive what the court awarded.

Start by obtaining a certified copy of the judgment from the clerk. Fees are modest, usually a few dollars per page. Send a polite written demand for payment to the defendant, attaching a copy of the judgment and giving a fixed deadline (for example, ten days). Keep proof of mailing. If payment doesn’t arrive, move to formal enforcement.

You can file an Execution—an order authorizing the sheriff or marshal to seize assets or garnish wages. In NYC, City Marshals handle most small-claims executions; outside NYC, sheriffs do. You’ll complete an “Information Sheet” listing the debtor’s employer, bank, or property. The marshal/sheriff then serves the Execution and collects directly, deducting statutory fees (usually added to the debt). Alternatively, you may garnish up to 10 percent of the debtor’s gross wages or seize bank funds. Enforcement actions are strictly regulated; you must avoid harassment or illegal collection practices. Let officials handle it.

If you lack information about the debtor’s assets, request a Judgment Debtor Examination. The court issues a subpoena compelling the debtor to appear and answer questions under oath about income and property. Failure to appear can lead to contempt proceedings. Prepare questions in advance—where they work, bank accounts, vehicles, or property owned. Information obtained there guides the next execution.

Judgments in New York accrue 9 percent annual interest from the date entered. They remain enforceable for 20 years and can be renewed if unpaid. If the debtor moves to another county, you can file a transcript of judgment with that county clerk for $10 – $15, making it collectible there. You may also file with the County Clerk’s office to create a lien on real property.

If the debtor pays, obtain and file a Satisfaction of Judgment immediately to clear the record. Failure to do so can expose you to liability for misleading credit information. Keep copies of all correspondence and receipts.

Enforcement takes patience but rewards persistence. Document every step, keep communication professional, and never resort to self-help like seizing property yourself. Use official channels—the same fairness that protected both parties at trial now ensures lawful collection. With diligence, even reluctant debtors eventually pay or face compounding interest that pressures resolution.

Step 8: Handle Default, Dismissal, or Settlement Outcomes

Small-claims cases don’t always end with a contested hearing. Many conclude through default judgments, dismissals, or settlements. Understanding each scenario prevents surprises and keeps your claim enforceable. If the defendant fails to appear on the hearing date after being properly served, the court can enter a default judgment in your favor. To qualify, you must show valid service and an accurate claim. Bring your filing receipt, mailing proof, or affidavit of service, plus the evidence substantiating your damages. Judges still review documentation even in default situations—they don’t award blindly. Once entered, a default judgment carries the same legal weight as one after trial.

If you miss the hearing, the case may be dismissed, sometimes with prejudice (permanently). Always notify the clerk early if you’re sick, have transportation problems, or discover an emergency. Courts usually allow one adjournment if you request before the scheduled time. If dismissal occurs due to genuine mistake, file a motion to vacate within 30 days explaining why you missed court and attaching proof (doctor’s note, travel delay, etc.). Judges often reinstate cases if the excuse is credible. However, if the defendant appears and you do not, courts rarely reopen unless extraordinary circumstances exist.

Settlements are another common resolution. Many courts provide mediators who help parties reach agreement before the judge hears evidence. Settlements can involve full or partial payments, repair agreements, or installment plans. When both sides consent, the terms are written and signed as a Stipulation of Settlement. The judge “so orders” it, converting the stipulation into an enforceable judgment. If the defendant fails to honor the payment schedule, you can file an Affidavit of Default under Stipulation and obtain judgment automatically without a new hearing. Always confirm that payment deadlines and total amounts are clearly written; vague promises lead to disputes.

Sometimes, both parties appear but neither persuades the court fully. Judges may dismiss “without prejudice,” allowing you to refile later, or they might issue a split decision awarding part of your claim. Take careful notes when the ruling is read—exact figures, payment dates, or obligations matter for collection or appeal. If the case is dismissed because the claim type exceeds small-claims limits (for example, asking for injunctive relief), you can refile in Supreme Court using a different form and fee structure. The small-claims record remains confidential and doesn’t count against you.

To close any resolved case, ask for a certified copy of the disposition—it’s proof of judgment for employers, banks, or credit agencies. If you lose, you may appeal by filing a Notice of Appeal and ordering a transcript within 30 days. In NYC, the appeal fee is modest ($30–$50 plus transcript cost). While appeals rarely overturn factual determinations, they can correct procedural errors such as improper service or denied continuances. Be aware, however, that enforcing a judgment during appeal is stayed if the losing party posts an undertaking (bond). Understanding how defaults, dismissals, and settlements function prevents administrative snags and lets you focus on final resolution rather than re-litigation.

Step 9: Request Post-Judgment Remedies and Monitor Payment

Once judgment is entered, the court’s role narrows; enforcement shifts to you. To keep momentum, track all deadlines and payments systematically. The debtor has 30 days to pay voluntarily. If full payment arrives, insist on a receipt. Once satisfied, file a Satisfaction of Judgment with the clerk—this clears public records and shows you acted responsibly. If payment is partial, document it and note the remaining balance. Interest at nine percent per year continues to accrue until full payment or satisfaction.

When the debtor ignores the judgment, you can pursue post-judgment remedies. The most common are:

• Income execution (wage garnishment): up to 10% of the debtor’s gross wages can be withheld by their employer and remitted to the marshal or sheriff until the judgment is paid.
• Property execution: authorizes seizure or sale of personal property like vehicles, equipment, or inventory.
• Bank account levy: allows the marshal or sheriff to freeze and collect funds from known bank accounts.
• Lien on real property: by filing a transcript of judgment with the County Clerk, creating a lien lasting ten years.

For any of these, you’ll first obtain a certified copy of your judgment (typically $5–$10) and complete an Information Subpoena if you need to locate assets. This subpoena compels the debtor—or even third parties like banks or employers—to disclose asset information. Failure to respond may trigger contempt proceedings. Always keep communications professional: never threaten, harass, or contact the debtor at work unless lawfully serving documents.

Tracking is vital. Create a log showing dates of letters, subpoenas, and payments. If a marshal or sheriff is collecting, call periodically for status updates. Their fees are set by statute and usually added to the debtor’s tab, not yours. Patience helps—collections can take months if the debtor’s income is low or sporadic. If the debtor moves, use the statewide court database to locate new addresses or re-file your transcript in the new county.

You can renew a judgment within twenty years, meaning old debts don’t simply vanish. If the debtor later applies for credit or sells property, your judgment can resurface as an enforceable lien. Conversely, if you’ve been paid in full, promptly file satisfaction to maintain credibility. Responsible post-judgment follow-through demonstrates respect for the court process and ensures that justice on paper becomes tangible restitution.

Step 10: Maintain Records, Learn from the Process, and Protect Future Interests

The final stage of any small-claims journey is documentation and reflection. Maintaining thorough records is not merely administrative—it’s your evidence trail if enforcement, credit disputes, or tax questions arise later. Create a secure digital folder and store: your original claim form, proof of service, correspondence with the court, judgment copy, satisfaction (if filed), and all receipts from payments or marshal activity. Back up copies to the cloud or encrypted USB drive. Good records simplify enforcement years later and prove diligence to any auditor or lender.

Recordkeeping also protects you against identity confusion. Credit bureaus sometimes misattribute judgments. Having copies of your filings allows you to verify which party was plaintiff or defendant. If you discover errors, you can provide certified copies to correct your report. Organized archives likewise help if you need to claim deductible business losses or report income from collected judgments. Even a $2,000 recovery might trigger tax implications if related to a business transaction.

Beyond paperwork, treat the process as a learning opportunity. Note what worked—timely service, clear evidence—and what caused stress. If you operate a small business, consider preventive measures: written contracts, deposits, and documentation of communications. Keeping your customer policies transparent reduces future disputes. Individuals can apply similar lessons by saving receipts, using written agreements for loans, and confirming all transactions in writing.

Stay alert for scams targeting judgment creditors. Some companies claim they can “buy your judgment” or collect faster for steep commissions. Verify any collector’s license with the Department of Consumer Affairs. Many legitimate marshals and attorneys handle collection at regulated fees; you don’t need intermediaries. Always insist on written agreements.

Finally, appreciate that small claims exist to make justice accessible, not punitive. Whether you won or lost, you’ve learned how to navigate court forms, evidence presentation, and service of process—skills that transfer to higher courts and everyday negotiations. Maintaining a respectful tone, meeting deadlines, and documenting everything turns an ordinary dispute into a case study in civic participation. In a system where most litigants appear without lawyers, your diligence sets a standard. Close your file knowing you upheld both your rights and the procedural fairness that defines New York’s small-claims tradition.

Associated Costs

Filing a small claim in New York is intentionally inexpensive. The filing fee is the core cost: $15 or $20 in NYC/City Courts depending on claim size, or $10/$15 in Town/Village Courts. Mailing costs are generally included, though some clerks charge a few dollars if certified mail is used. Personal service—only needed if mailing fails—typically costs $30–$60 when done by a licensed process server or marshal. Certified copies of judgments or satisfactions cost $5–$10 per copy. Optional expenses include witness travel, notarization, and transcript fees for appeals ($30–$100). There are no attorney fees unless you hire counsel voluntarily. In summary, a well-managed case can proceed from filing to judgment for under $50 total.

Time Required

Small-claims cases move faster than most civil actions. After filing, hearing dates are usually set within 3–8 weeks. If the defendant is served promptly, judgment may follow the same day as the hearing. Defendants have 30 days to pay voluntarily; if not, enforcement via marshal or sheriff can add another 4–8 weeks. Overall, most cases resolve within 2–3 months from filing to payment. Complex enforcement or evasive defendants can extend timelines up to six months, but diligent tracking of deadlines keeps progress steady.

Limitations

• Small-claims courts handle monetary damages only—no injunctions or orders to perform services.
• The jurisdictional limits are firm: $10,000 (NYC), $5,000 (City Courts), and $3,000 (Town/Village).
• You cannot split one large claim into smaller ones to fit the limit; doing so risks dismissal.
• Service accuracy is critical—mistyped names or addresses void jurisdiction.
• Judges expect specific evidence; vague verbal claims rarely succeed.
• Government agencies require separate “notice of claim” procedures and cannot be sued directly here.
• Appeals are limited to errors of law or procedure, not mere disagreement with a judge’s findings.

Authoritative Links

• NYC Civil Court – Small Claims Overview
• Official Small-Claims Filing Fees (NY Courts)
• New York State Small Claims Handbook (PDF)
• Statewide Filing Fee Schedules – City, Town & Village Courts
• CourtHelp – Starting a Small Claims Case