New Hampshire Small Claims Court Guide
Everything you need to know about filing a small claims case in New Hampshire.
Maximum Claim
$10,000
Filing Fee
$60–$80
Fee waiver available
Court Name
Small Claims Court (District Court)
Hearing Timeline
30–60 days from filing
Find your courthouse in New Hampshire
Search by city, county, or ZIP code to get the courthouse address, phone number, hours, and filing options.
How Much Can You Sue For in New Hampshire?
In New Hampshire, individuals can file small claims cases for up to $10,000. This limit applies to both individuals and businesses.
New Hampshire Small Claims Court Filing Fees
| Claim Amount | Filing Fee |
|---|---|
| Claims up to $5,000 | $60 |
| Claims $5,001–$10,000 | $80 |
If you cannot afford the filing fee, you may qualify for a fee waiver. Ask the court clerk for a fee waiver application when you file.
Statutes of Limitations in New Hampshire
You must file your claim within the time limits below, or the court will dismiss your case regardless of its merits.
3
years — written contract
3
years — oral contract
3
years — property damage
3
years — personal injury
Ready to take action in New Hampshire?
A demand letter often resolves disputes before court. Our free guide shows you how to write one in minutes.
Read the demand letter guideWhere to File in New Hampshire
Small claims cases in New Hampshire are handled by the Small Claims Court (District Court). New Hampshire has 10 county Circuit Courts (District Division).
Where to file: File in the court nearest to where the defendant lives
Not sure which court you need? Our step-by-step filing guide walks you through finding the right court for your case.
Find your specific courthouse: Search for your county courthouse below ↓ — get the address, phone number, hours, and see if e-filing is available.
How to Serve the Defendant in New Hampshire
After filing your claim, you must formally notify the defendant. This is called "service of process" and is required before your case can be heard.
Accepted methods: Court sends notice by certified mail
Deadline: Service must be completed at least 14 days before the hearing.
New Hampshire Small Claims Court Procedures
Can I bring a lawyer?
Yes, attorneys are allowed to represent parties in New Hampshire small claims court.
Can I appeal?
Either party may appeal within 7 days to superior court
Is e-filing available?
Yes, electronic filing is available in New Hampshire.
Are remote hearings available?
Remote hearings are available in some New Hampshire courts. Check with your specific court location for current policies.
Official New Hampshire Court Resources
Find Your Courthouse in New Hampshire
Select your county to get the courthouse address, phone number, hours, and filing options.
Belknap County
Laconia area
(855) 212-1234
Carroll County
Ossipee area
(855) 212-1234
Cheshire County
Keene area
(855) 212-1234
Coos County
Lancaster area
(855) 212-1234
Grafton County
North Haverhill area
(855) 212-1234
Hillsborough County
Manchester area
(855) 212-1234
Merrimack County
Concord area
(855) 212-1234
Rockingham County
Brentwood area
(855) 212-1234
Strafford County
Dover area
(855) 212-1234
Sullivan County
Newport area
(855) 212-1234
Don't see your county? Let us know here!
Ready to take action in New Hampshire?
A demand letter often resolves disputes before court — our free guide shows you how to write one.
Read the demand letter guide