Washington Small Claims Court Guide

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

Maximum Claim

$10,000

$5,000 for businesses

Filing Fee

$50

Fee waiver available

Court Name

Small Claims Court (District Court)

Hearing Timeline

30–60 days from filing

Find your courthouse in Washington

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 Washington?

In Washington, individuals can file small claims cases for up to $10,000. Businesses, corporations, and LLCs are limited to $5,000.

Important: Corporations and LLCs limited to $5,000

Washington Small Claims Court Filing Fees

Claim Amount	Filing Fee
Standard filing fee ($35 in some counties)	$50

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 Washington

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 Washington?

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 Washington

Small claims cases in Washington are handled by the Small Claims Court (District Court). Washington has 39 county District Courts.

Where to file: File in the county 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 Washington

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, process server, or neutral adult. Certified mail with return receipt. Cannot serve yourself.

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

Washington Small Claims Court Procedures

Can I bring a lawyer?

No, attorneys are generally not allowed to represent parties in Washington small claims court. You must represent yourself, though you can consult with a lawyer before your hearing.

Can I appeal?

No appeal from small claims in most counties. Some counties allow limited appeal.

Is e-filing available?

E-filing is available in some Washington courts but not all. Check with your specific court location.

Are remote hearings available?

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

Official Washington Court Resources

Washington Court Website →

Find Your Courthouse in Washington

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

Search all courts by city, county, or ZIP

Adams County

Ritzville area

Asotin County

Asotin area

(509) 243-2027