How Much Can You Sue for in Small Claims Court?

The amount you can sue for in small claims court depends entirely on which state you're filing in. Limits range from as low as $2,500 in Kentucky and Rhode Island to as high as $25,000 in Tennessee. The majority of states set their limit somewhere between $5,000 and $15,000.

California allows individuals to sue for up to $12,500 (businesses are capped at $6,250). Texas has one of the highest limits at $20,000. New York's limit is $10,000 in most courts, though the NYC Civil Court has its own rules.

Keep in mind that the limit applies to the amount you're asking for in damages — not the value of the underlying dispute. If you're owed $30,000 but your state caps claims at $10,000, you have a few options: sue for the $10,000 maximum and waive the rest, or file in a higher court where the full amount can be recovered.

Most people choose small claims because it's faster and cheaper, even if it means forgoing some of the money owed. Attorney fees aren't typically recovered in small claims, so weigh the cost of a higher-court lawsuit against what you'd actually collect.

Business limits are often lower than individual limits. California is a prime example — individuals can sue for up to $12,500, but businesses are capped at $6,250. Always check your state's specific rules before filing.