How to Sue a Employer in Michigan Small Claims Court
Unpaid wages, last paycheck & withheld commissions
In Michigan, employer disputes are handled in the Small Claims Division. You can sue for up to $6,500 without a lawyer — making small claims the fastest and most affordable way to resolve a employer dispute. If your employer owes you wages — whether unpaid hours, a withheld final paycheck, or unpaid commissions — small claims court is often the fastest route to recovery. Many states have additional wage theft protections that let you claim double or triple damages plus attorney fees.
What You Can Sue a Employer For in Michigan
- ✓ Final paycheck not paid or delayed past legal deadline
- ✓ Unpaid overtime wages
- ✓ Withheld commissions or bonuses you earned
- ✓ Illegal deductions from your paycheck
- ✓ Misclassified as independent contractor to avoid paying wages
- ✓ Paid below minimum wage for hours worked
Michigan Small Claims — Key Facts
Step-by-Step: Suing a Employer in Michigan
Confirm your claim is within Michigan's $6,500 limit
Michigan's small claims limit is $6,500. If your damages are higher, you can reduce your claim to the limit or file in Michigan civil court. Use our Michigan Small Claims Limit guide for the full details.
Send a demand letter first
Before filing, send a demand letter to both the HR department and your direct supervisor. This creates a paper trail and often prompts payment to avoid litigation. Courts in Michigan expect plaintiffs to have made a good-faith attempt to resolve the dispute. A demand letter also creates a paper trail and often prompts payment without any court filing.
Gather your evidence
Your case is only as strong as your evidence. Collect everything before filing — see the checklist below for exactly what you need for a employer dispute.
Find the right Michigan courthouse
File at the Small Claims Division in the Michigan county where the employer is located, does business, or where the dispute occurred. For businesses, check the Michigan Secretary of State website for the correct legal name and registered agent address.
Pay the filing fee ($30–$70)
Michigan small claims filing fees range from $30 to $70 depending on your claim amount. Use our Michigan Filing Fee Calculator to find the exact amount for your claim. Keep your file-stamped copy.
Serve the defendant properly
The employer must be formally notified of the lawsuit. Michigan courts provide specific instructions — follow them exactly. Improper service is one of the most common reasons cases are dismissed.
Present your case at the hearing
Bring 3 organized copies of all evidence. Present your case in order: what happened, how much you lost, and why the employer is responsible. Most Michigan small claims hearings last 15–30 minutes. Stay calm, stick to facts, and let the judge ask questions.
Evidence Checklist: Suing a Employer in Michigan
Tips for Winning Your Employer Case in Michigan
Many states require employers to pay the final paycheck within 72 hours of termination (or even immediately if you quit). Know your state's deadline.
Check whether your state has wage theft laws allowing double or triple damages — this can significantly increase your recovery.
You can also file a wage claim with your state's Department of Labor for free. Both options can run simultaneously.
Sue the business entity and keep in mind: if the company is closing or has limited assets, a judgment may be hard to collect.
Check Michigan's Exact Filing Fee
Filing fees in Michigan range from $30–$70 depending on your claim amount. Find the exact fee before you file.
Michigan Filing Fee Calculator →