$20,000Claim Limit
$30–$75Filing Fee
4 yrsSOL Period
21 daysAppeal Window
Texas Small Claims Rules
| Court Name | Justice Court — Small Claims Division |
| Claim Limit | $20,000 ($20,000 for businesses) |
| Filing Fee | ~$30–$75 (varies by claim amount and county) |
| Statute of Limitations | 4 years for most contract disputes |
| Attorneys | ✓ Attorneys allowed Attorneys are allowed |
| Service of Process | Constable or certified mail |
| Appeal Deadline | 21 days from judgment |
| Judgment Valid For | 10 years |
| Online Filing | ✗ In-person at courthouse |
| Official Court Website | https://www.txcourts.gov/programs-services/legal-access-self-help-center → |
Texas Security Deposit & Wage Rules
| Deposit Return Deadline | 30 days |
| Penalty for Violation | 3× the deposit amount plus attorney fees |
| Wage Claims SOL | 2 years |
💡 Before suing in Texas, send a written demand letter first. Generate one free →
What You Need to Know About Texas Small Claims
Texas has one of the highest small claims limits in the country at $20,000, making it possible to resolve substantial disputes without civil court. Cases are heard in Justice Court. Texas has strong tenant protections — landlords who wrongfully withhold deposits face triple damages plus attorney fees. The appeal window is 21 days. Service is handled by a constable rather than a sheriff.
Filing Tips for Texas
1
Texas's $20,000 limit is among the highest nationally — most consumer and business disputes qualify
2
Triple damages plus attorney fees for deposit violations make Texas very tenant-friendly
3
Service in Texas is by constable (not sheriff) — verify the correct constable precinct for your county
4
Texas has 254 counties each with their own Justice Court — confirm the correct court before filing
Common Cases in Texas
Get a custom evidence checklist for your case type: