What is the maximum amount I can sue for in California small claims court?

What the Law Says

California law sets strict dollar limits on how much you can sue for in small claims court, depending on who you are and how many claims you file per year.

The limit depends on your legal status: individuals and sole proprietors may sue for up to $12,500 per claim. However, corporations, LLCs, and other non-natural persons (including partnerships) are limited to $6,250 per claim.

You may file no more than two claims for $12,500 or more in any calendar year. In total, you may file no more than three small claims cases per year — regardless of amount — unless you get special court permission.

These limits apply to the amount you ask for in your complaint — not including interest, court costs, or attorney fees (which are generally not recoverable in small claims).

Statutory Text

An individual may not file more than two actions in a calendar year in which the matter in controversy exceeds five thousand dollars ($5,000).

— Code of Civil Procedure, s. 116.221 — Limitations on number of actions

Statutory Text

The limit for a natural person is twelve thousand five hundred dollars ($12,500). The limit for a corporation or other entity is six thousand two hundred fifty dollars ($6,250).

— Code of Civil Procedure, s. 116.220 — Limitations on amount in controversy

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