How to File a Unpaid Loans / Debts Claim
in Small Claims Court
Collecting on personal loans, bounced checks, and unpaid invoices through small claims court is straightforward when you have written evidence of the debt. The key is documentation.
Common Unpaid Loans / Debts Cases
Step-by-Step Filing Guide
Gather all evidence of the loan: written agreement, bank transfer records, texts acknowledging the debt
Calculate the total owed including any agreed interest
Send a demand letter with a final deadline for payment
File in the county where the defendant lives or where the debt was created
If suing on a bounced check, check your state's specific bad check laws (often include penalties)
Bring all documentation proving the debt exists and that it's unpaid
📋 Evidence You'll Need
Even a simple text message saying "I'll pay you back next month" can serve as evidence of a debt. Collect and print all digital communications.
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Filing Limits by State
The maximum you can sue for varies significantly by state. Top 15 states by filing limit:
| State | Limit | Fee | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tennessee | $25,000 | $75 | Guide → |
| Texas | $20,000 | $54 | Guide → |
| Delaware | $15,000 | $45 | Guide → |
| Georgia | $15,000 | $50 | Guide → |
| Minnesota | $15,000 | $75 | Guide → |
| North Dakota | $15,000 | $30 | Guide → |
| California | $12,500 | $30 | Guide → |
| Pennsylvania | $12,000 | $52 | Guide → |
| South Dakota | $12,000 | $45 | Guide → |
| Utah | $11,000 | $60 | Guide → |
| Alaska | $10,000 | $30 | Guide → |
| Illinois | $10,000 | $85 | Guide → |
| Nevada | $10,000 | $50 | Guide → |
| New Hampshire | $10,000 | $65 | Guide → |
| New Mexico | $10,000 | $45 | Guide → |
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