Texas Small Claims Court Guide

Everything you need to know about filing a small claims case in Texas.

Maximum Claim

$20,000

Filing Fee

$54–$99

Fee waiver available

Court Name

Justice Court (Small Claims)

Hearing Timeline

30–60 days from filing

Find your courthouse in Texas

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 Texas?

In Texas, individuals can file small claims cases for up to $20,000. This limit applies to both individuals and businesses.

Important: Limit raised to $20,000 effective October 2025. Filed in Justice of the Peace courts. Texas does not allow wage garnishment for most consumer debts.

Texas Small Claims Court Filing Fees

Claim Amount	Filing Fee
Claims up to $200	$54
Claims $201–$500	$54
Claims $501–$2,500	$69
Claims $2,501–$5,000	$84
Claims $5,001–$10,000	$89
Claims $10,001–$20,000	$99

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 Texas

You must file your claim within the time limits below, or the court will dismiss your case regardless of its merits.

years — written contract

years — oral contract

years — property damage

years — personal injury

Ready to take action in Texas?

A demand letter often resolves disputes before court. Our free guide shows you how to write one in minutes.

Read the demand letter guide

Where to File in Texas

Small claims cases in Texas are handled by the Justice Court (Small Claims). Texas has 254 county Justice Courts.

Where to file: File in the precinct where the defendant lives or where the obligation was to be performed

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 Texas

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: Personal service by sheriff, constable, or authorized process server. Certified mail available in some courts.

Deadline: Service must be completed at least 10 days before the hearing.

Texas Small Claims Court Procedures

Can I bring a lawyer?

Yes, attorneys are allowed to represent parties in Texas small claims court.

Can I appeal?

Either party may appeal within 21 days for new trial in county court

Is e-filing available?

Yes, electronic filing is available in Texas.

Are remote hearings available?

Remote hearings are available in some Texas courts. Check with your specific court location for current policies.

Official Texas Court Resources

Texas Court Website →Official Court Forms →

Find Your Courthouse in Texas

Select your county to get the courthouse address, phone number, hours, and filing options.

Search all courts by city, county, or ZIP

Anderson County

Palestine area

(903) 764-5661