Small Claims in New York
Plain-language legal information · Citations checked against primary sources · Sources linked below
Legal information, not legal advice. This is general legal information, not legal advice, and does not create an attorney–client relationship. Laws vary by state and change over time. For advice about your specific situation, consult a licensed attorney.
How small claims works
Small claims court is a simplified process for resolving disputes up to a dollar limit set by each state. It is generally designed to be used without a lawyer.
The dollar limit, filing fees, and procedures vary by state. Confirming your state's limit and forms with the local court is a common first step.
New York: the numbers that matter
Small claims limit (varies by court)
$10,000 NYC · $5,000 City Courts · $3,000 Town & Village Courts
New York has no single small-claims number. It's $10,000 in New York City Civil Court, $5,000 in City Courts elsewhere, and $3,000 in Town and Village (Justice) Courts. Confirm which court covers your location before you file — a single 'NY limit' would be wrong for most of the state. NYC filing fees ($15–$20) are among the lowest in the country.
Sources
This guide references New York's statutes and rules of court, plus public legal-aid resources. Specific statute figures for New York are verified against primary sources, with the statute cite and check date shown on each figure. Always confirm current law with your state's official website or a licensed attorney.
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