Determine whether your dispute qualifies for small claims court based on your state's monetary limits, claim type, and party eligibility.
Some states limit filings per year (e.g., CA: 2 for individuals, 12 for businesses)
Eligibility Formula
Eligible = (Claim Amount ≤ State Limit for Party Type) AND (Claim Type is Permitted) AND (Defendant is not a Government Entity) AND (Annual Filing Count < State Maximum)
% of Limit Used = (Claim Amount ÷ State Limit) × 100
State limits vary by plaintiff type. Example: California — individuals: $12,500; businesses: $6,250. New York — individuals: $10,000; businesses: $5,000.
