El Centro Courthouse
Filing information for El Centro Courthouse in El Centro, CA. Part of the Imperial County small claims court system.
Small claims in California — the numbers that apply at this court
$12,500
maximum claim
from $30
filing fee (published, varies by claim)
2–4 yrs
filing deadline by claim type
Yes
e-filing accepted
Published court information — verify before acting. See the full California small claims guide · The form that starts a case (SC-100): every field explained.
Courthouse Details
El Centro Courthouse
939 West Main Street
El Centro, CA 92243
Hours: 8:00am to 4:00pm Mon-Fri
Area Served
All of Imperial County
How to File at El Centro Courthouse
E-filing available
This court accepts electronic filing for small claims cases.
Note: E-filing is mandatory for small claims cases in Imperial County. Filers must use an approved Electronic Filing Service Provider (EFSP).
File by mail
Most small claims courts accept filing by mail — check with this court first. Typically you mail your completed forms with the filing fee plus a self-addressed stamped envelope for your returned copies.
Ready to get your money back?
A demand letter often settles disputes before a case is ever filed — and it only takes a few minutes.
Read the demand letter guideWrong court? Imperial County has 3 courts.
See all 3 courts in Imperial County →Small claims rules in California
How much you can sue for
Individuals can sue for up to $12,500 · businesses up to $6,250.
Individuals limited to 2 claims over $2,500/year. Businesses limited to 2 claims over $2,500/year. Filing fee increases to $100 if you file more than 12 claims/year.
Deadline to file (statute of limitations)
4 yrs written contract · 2 yrs oral contract · 3 yrs property damage · 2 yrs personal injury
Common questions
How much does it cost to file a small claims case at El Centro Courthouse?
Filing fees in California are set by the state and run from $30 to $75, depending on how much you're claiming. If you can't afford the fee, California offers a fee waiver — ask the clerk how to apply. Fees change, so confirm the current amount with the court clerk before you file.
What's the most I can sue for in Imperial County?
Small claims cases in Imperial County are limited to $12,500. If your claim is worth more than that, you either have to bring it in a different court or give up the amount above the limit to stay in small claims. The clerk can confirm which court fits your claim.
Can I file online at El Centro Courthouse?
Electronic filing exists here, but the record indicates it isn't open to people representing themselves — it's for attorneys. Plan to file in person or by mail, and ask the clerk whether that's still the case.
Where is El Centro Courthouse, and when is it open?
El Centro Courthouse is at 939 West Main Street, El Centro, CA 92243. Posted hours: 8:00am to 4:00pm Mon-Fri. Phone: (760) 482-2238. Hours change around holidays and court closures — call ahead before you travel.
Do I have to have a lawyer to file in El Centro?
Small claims court is built for people representing themselves, and most filers do exactly that. Whether an attorney may appear varies by state — the state guide linked on this page covers the rule where you are, and the clerk can confirm it.
Answers reflect published court data. Court rules and fees change — the clerk is always the authoritative source.