What is the small claims limit in Washington?

Washington small claims is governed by RCW Chapter 12.40 and is a division of each county's District Court.

1. Monetary Limit — RCW 12.40.010 sets the small claims limit at $10,000 for natural persons and $5,000 for entities and assignees (raised from $5,000/$5,000 in 2019).

2. Filing Fee — $35-$50 depending on the District Court (RCW 3.62.060). Service fee by sheriff is approximately $50; certified mail is cheaper. Fee waivers available for indigent litigants.

3. Lawyers — Prohibited unless the judge gives permission (RCW 12.40.080). Both parties must consent for an attorney to appear, or the judge must find good cause. Corporations may be represented by a non-attorney officer or employee. Paralegals and law students may not appear.

4. Statute of Limitations — Standard Washington SOLs: 6 years for written contracts (RCW 4.16.040), 3 years for oral contracts and personal injury (RCW 4.16.080), 3 years for property damage and conversion (RCW 4.16.080(2)), 3 years for fraud (RCW 4.16.080(4)).

5. Where to File — District Court of the county where (a) defendant resides, (b) defendant transacts business, (c) the contract was performed, or (d) the cause of action arose (RCW 12.40.020).

6. Service — Defendant must be served at least 10 days before the hearing (RCW 12.40.040) by sheriff, registered process server, or certified mail (return receipt).

7. Hearing — Informal trial. The judge may attempt mediation before hearing the case (RCW 12.40.080). Rules of evidence relaxed; hearing typically takes 15-30 minutes.

8. Appeal Rights — Either party may appeal to the Superior Court within 30 days of judgment, but only if the original claim was for more than $250 (RCW 12.36.020). Appellant must post a bond. Appeal is on the record, not de novo.

This is legal information, not legal advice.