Small claims cost calculator
Some legal systems have a paper-only debt collection order that skips the hearing entirely. The United States has no such procedure. The closest equivalents are small claims court, where you appear without a lawyer and fees are low, and a default judgment when a defendant in a regular case never responds. This tool prices the small claims route.
Legal basis: small claims jurisdiction is set by state statute, and dollar limits currently run from roughly $2,500 to $25,000 depending on the state - California Code of Civil Procedure ยง116.221 and New York City Civil Court Act ยง1801 are typical examples. Filing fees are usually tiered by claim size and run about $30 to $100. If you file a regular civil case instead and the defendant does not answer, Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 55 governs entry of default and default judgment. Figures are representative as of September 2026; check your own court's schedule.
Winning is not collecting - you may still need a writ of execution or wage garnishment. This calculator is for reference only and is not legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney about your specific situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can either waive the excess and stay in small claims, or file in the regular civil division where fees and procedure are heavier. Which is better depends on how much you would give up.
Rules vary by state. Several states bar attorneys in small claims hearings entirely, others allow them. Check your state court self-help page before hiring counsel.
No. A default judgment under Rule 55 or the state equivalent only establishes the debt. Collecting still requires enforcement steps such as garnishment or a levy.