Florida Small Claims Court Guide
Everything you need to know about filing a small claims case in Florida — dollar limits, filing fees, court locations, and step-by-step guidance.
Florida Quick Facts
Maximum Claim
$8,000
Filing Fee
$55–$300
Court fees added to your case — not due today
Court
Small Claims Court (County Court)
Overview
Small Claims in Florida
Florida small claims court is a division of the County Court and handles civil disputes where the amount claimed does not exceed $8,000. The court provides an accessible and affordable path for individuals and businesses to resolve monetary disputes. Florida is distinctive in that it allows attorney representation in small claims court, unlike many other states.
Filing fees in Florida are tiered based on the claim amount: $55 for claims under $100, $80 for claims of $100–$500, $175 for claims of $500–$2,500, and $300 for claims of $2,500–$8,000. An additional $10 per defendant is charged for the summons. These fees are recoverable as court costs if you win your case.
Florida small claims court is commonly used for collecting unpaid debts, recovering security deposits, seeking compensation for auto property damage, resolving contractor disputes, and addressing breach of contract matters. The court can award monetary judgments, including filing fees and court costs, which are recoverable from the losing party.
To file, you must submit a statement of claim to the County Court in the county where the defendant lives, works, or where the dispute occurred. After filing, the court issues a summons for service on the defendant. Florida requires pre-trial mediation in many counties, which can help resolve disputes before a hearing. The process is designed to be efficient and practical for self-represented litigants.
Where to File
File in the County Court of the county where the defendant lives, works, or where the incident occurred. For business defendants, file where the business is located or where the contract was to be performed.
Service of Process
Service may be completed by certified mail, sheriff, or a private process server. Florida allows certified mail service for small claims. The defendant must be served at least 20 days before the hearing if served in-state, or 30 days if served out-of-state.
Statute of Limitations
Written contracts: 5 years. Oral contracts: 4 years. Property damage: 4 years. Personal injury: 4 years. Fraud: 4 years from discovery.
Appeal Rules
Either party may appeal to the Circuit Court within 30 days. The case is retried de novo before a judge or jury.
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