Small Claims Calculator
Understand your small claims options for unpaid freelance invoices. State-by-state limits, filing fees, timelines, and freelancer protection laws in one place.
Frequently asked questions
What is small claims court?
A simplified court for resolving disputes under a dollar threshold (varies by state from $2,500 to $25,000). No attorney required in most states. Designed to be accessible to regular people. Filing fees are low ($30-$200) and cases typically resolve in 30-90 days.
Do I file in my state or the client's state?
Generally, you file where the defendant (your client) lives or does business, or where the work was performed. If your client is in another state, small claims can be impractical. Enforcing an out-of-state judgment adds significant complexity. For remote work, check if your contract specifies a jurisdiction clause.
Why do limits vary within some states?
Some states (notably New York) have different small claims limits depending on which court you file in. City courts, district courts, and justice courts may have different thresholds. Always verify the specific limit for the court where you will file, not just the state-level number.
Does it matter if I file as an individual or a business?
Yes. Several states have lower small claims limits for business entity plaintiffs (LLCs, corporations) than for individuals. If you freelance through an LLC, check whether your state's business limit applies to your claim. In some cases, filing as an individual may allow a higher claim limit.
Do I need a lawyer for small claims?
In most states, no. Some states (like California) don't allow attorney representation in small claims hearings. The whole point is accessibility. You present your case, show your evidence, and the judge decides. That said, consulting an attorney before filing can help you assess your case.
What if I win but the client doesn't pay?
A court judgment doesn't automatically collect money. If the client doesn't pay voluntarily, you'll need to pursue enforcement, which can include wage garnishment, bank levies, or property liens depending on your state. Collection is a separate process and can be the most difficult part. Some states offer post-judgment discovery tools to locate assets.
Related tools
Read our guide: What to Do When a Client Won't Pay →