Monroe County Courthouse
Filing information for Monroe County Courthouse in Key West, FL. Part of the Monroe County small claims court system.
Small claims in Florida — the numbers that apply at this court
$8,000
maximum claim
from $55
filing fee (published, varies by claim)
4–5 yrs
filing deadline by claim type
Yes
e-filing accepted
Published court information — verify before acting. See the full Florida small claims guide · The form that starts a case: every field explained.
Courthouse Details
Monroe County Courthouse
500 Whitehead Street
Key West, FL 33040
Mailing Address
P.O. Box 1980
Key West, FL 33041
Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
Area Served
Lower Keys
How to File at Monroe County Courthouse
E-filing available
This court accepts electronic filing for small claims cases.
Note: Monroe County uses the statewide Florida Courts E-Filing Portal, which allows self-represented litigants to file new small claims cases online.
File in person
Bring your completed forms to the courthouse during business hours.
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? Monroe County has 3 courts.
See all 3 courts in Monroe County →Small claims rules in Florida
How much you can sue for
Individuals can sue for up to $8,000.
Limit excludes costs, interest, and attorneys' fees
Deadline to file (statute of limitations)
5 yrs written contract · 4 yrs oral contract · 4 yrs property damage · 4 yrs personal injury
Common questions
How much does it cost to file a small claims case at Monroe County Courthouse?
Filing fees in Florida are set by the state and run from $55 to $400, depending on how much you're claiming. If you can't afford the fee, Florida 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 Monroe County?
Small claims cases in Monroe County are limited to $8,000. 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 Monroe County Courthouse?
Yes — electronic filing is available for small claims in Monroe County. You can also file in person or by mail. The clerk's office can tell you which option is fastest for your case.
Where is Monroe County Courthouse, and when is it open?
Monroe County Courthouse is at 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040. Posted hours: Monday - Friday, 8:30 am - 5:00 pm. Phone: (305) 294-4641. Hours change around holidays and court closures — call ahead before you travel.
Do I have to have a lawyer to file in Key West?
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.