Vermont Small Claims Court Guide
Everything you need to know about filing a small claims case in Vermont.
Maximum Claim
$10,000
Filing Fee
$75
Fee waiver available
Court Name
Small Claims Court (Superior Court)
Hearing Timeline
30–60 days from filing
Find your courthouse in Vermont
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 Vermont?
In Vermont, individuals can file small claims cases for up to $10,000. This limit applies to both individuals and businesses.
Vermont Small Claims Court Filing Fees
| Claim Amount | Filing Fee |
|---|---|
| Standard filing fee | $75 |
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 Vermont
You must file your claim within the time limits below, or the court will dismiss your case regardless of its merits.
6
years — written contract
6
years — oral contract
3
years — property damage
3
years — personal injury
Ready to take action in Vermont?
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 Vermont
Small claims cases in Vermont are handled by the Small Claims Court (Superior Court). Vermont has 14 county Superior Courts (Civil Division).
Where to file: File in the county where the defendant lives or where the cause of action arose
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 Vermont
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 or certified mail by court clerk
Deadline: Service must be completed at least 14 days before the hearing.
Vermont Small Claims Court Procedures
Can I bring a lawyer?
Yes, attorneys are allowed to represent parties in Vermont small claims court.
Can I appeal?
Either party may appeal within 30 days for new trial in superior court
Is e-filing available?
Yes, electronic filing is available in Vermont.
Are remote hearings available?
Remote hearings are available in some Vermont courts. Check with your specific court location for current policies.
Official Vermont Court Resources
Find Your Courthouse in Vermont
Select your county to get the courthouse address, phone number, hours, and filing options.
Addison County
Middlebury area
(802) 388-7741
Bennington County
Bennington area
(802) 447-2700
Caledonia County
St. Johnsbury area
(802) 748-6600
Chittenden County
Burlington area
(802) 863-3467
Essex County
Guildhall area
(802) 676-3910
Franklin County
St. Albans area
(802) 524-7993
Grand Isle County
North Hero area
(802) 372-8350
Lamoille County
Hyde Park area
(802) 888-3887
Orange County
Chelsea area
(802) 685-4610
Orleans County
Newport area
(802) 334-3305
Rutland County
Rutland area
(802) 775-4394
Washington County
Montpelier area
(802) 828-2091
Windham County
Newfane area
(802) 365-7979
Windsor County
Woodstock area
(802) 457-2121
Don't see your county? Let us know here!
Ready to take action in Vermont?
A demand letter often resolves disputes before court — our free guide shows you how to write one.
Read the demand letter guide