LegalCostCalculator
Free Reference Guide · 2026

New York Small Claims Court Guide

Key fees, step-by-step instructions, and important deadlines — specific to New York. Sourced from official state and court websites.

Full New York calculator →

New York Small Claims Court — Key Numbers

$10,000
Court limit
$15–$20
Filing fee
6 yrs
Written contract SOL
6 yrs
Oral contract SOL
Small Claims Court
Court name
New York note
New York has surprisingly low filing fees — among the cheapest in the US at $15–$20.

Step-by-Step: Small Claims Court in New York

  1. 1

    Confirm your claim is within the New York limit of $10,000.

  2. 2

    Send a written demand letter via certified mail — give the other party 14–30 days to respond.

  3. 3

    File your Plaintiff's Claim form at the Small Claims Court clerk's office (fee: $15–$20).

  4. 4

    Arrange service of process — the defendant must be formally notified of the lawsuit.

  5. 5

    Gather your evidence: contracts, receipts, photos, texts, and any written estimates.

  6. 6

    Attend your hearing. Bring organized evidence. State your case clearly and let the facts speak.

  7. 7

    If you win and the defendant doesn't pay, use wage garnishment or bank levy to collect.

Can't afford the filing fee?

New York courts offer fee waivers (In Forma Pauperis) for filers below 125–200% of the federal poverty level. Ask the court clerk for a fee waiver form before paying. → New York fee waiver guide

Data sourced from official New York government and court websites. Updated May 2026. Always verify current fees with your local courthouse before filing.

Full Small Claims Court calculator →  ·  LegalCostCalculator.org