Filing a case in California small claims court starts with properly completed paperwork. While the process is designed to be accessible, many people get overwhelmed or make small mistakes that delay their hearing—or worse, get their case rejected.
This guide walks you through how to correctly complete the key small claims forms in California, including what information is required, how to avoid common errors, and where to get help. We also link to examples and tools to make the process easier.
Why Accurate Paperwork Matters
In small claims court, you’re responsible for filling out the forms yourself. The court won’t correct mistakes, and if something is missing or inaccurate, your case may be postponed or dismissed.
Getting your paperwork right means:
- Your claim will be accepted and processed by the court
- The defendant can be properly served
- You’ll avoid unnecessary delays
You’ll look prepared and credible in front of the judge
Step 1: Start with the SC-100 Form (Plaintiff’s Claim)
The SC-100 (Plaintiff’s Claim and ORDER to Go to Small Claims Court) is the primary form you need to start your lawsuit.
You’ll use it to explain:
- Who you are
- Who you’re suing
- How much you’re asking for
- Why you’re filing in a particular court
- What the dispute is about
What to include on SC-100:
- Your information (name, address, phone number)
- Defendant’s legal name and address (individual or business)
- Amount you’re suing for (itemize if needed)
- Reason for the claim (briefly explain what happened)
- Jurisdiction info (why you’re filing in this county)
- Confirmation that you demanded payment before filing
Common mistake: Using a business’s trade name instead of its legal name. Always check for the registered business name if suing a company.
Example Entry for SC-100 (Section 3 – Why You’re Suing):
“On March 5, 2024, I provided landscape design services to the defendant. The work was completed, but the agreed-upon payment of $1,250 was never made. I have attempted to collect payment multiple times, including by email and phone. I am seeking the full unpaid amount.”
Step 2: Identify the Right Court (Venue)
Form SC-100 asks why you’re filing in this particular court. Venue is typically based on:
- Where the contract was signed or broken
- Where the defendant lives or does business
- Where the incident or property damage occurred
You must check the box that applies and write a short explanation.
Example:
“Defendant resides in Los Angeles County and the services were performed in Pasadena.”Not sure where to file? Our online system automatically chooses the correct venue for you based on your answers.
Start here:
Step 3: Prepare Additional Forms if Needed
Depending on your case, you may need one or more of these additional forms:
- SC-104 (Proof of Service) – Required after serving the defendant
- SC-150 (Request to Postpone Trial) – If you need to reschedule
- SC-114/SC-114A (Order to Produce Documents at Trial) – If you need the defendant to bring records
- SC-133 (Judgment Debtor’s Statement of Assets) – Used after winning a judgment
You may also need:
- SC-103 – If you’re serving a business and want the court clerk to handle certified mail
- SC-105 – If you need to authorize someone to appear for you (like a business rep)
Tip: Bring 3 copies of each completed form—one for you, one for the court, and one to serve.
Step 4: Include Supporting Documentation
While you don’t submit all evidence with the SC-100, you should have your documents ready:
- Contracts or invoices
- Text or email exchanges
- Receipts or proof of payment
- Demand letter
- Photos or videos (for property damage or incomplete work)
Need a checklist of everything to gather?
Use our free prep guide here:
Step 5: Filing the Paperwork
Once your SC-100 is complete, file it with the Superior Court’s Small Claims Division in the correct county.
Ways to file:
- In person at the courthouse
- By mail
- Online (if available in your county)
Filing fees range from $30 to $75, depending on the amount of your claim. Fee waivers are available.Want to save time and avoid courthouse trips?
Use our online tool to file your case without stepping foot in court:
Step 6: Serve the Defendant
You must legally notify the person or business you’re suing by serving them a copy of your filed claim. This must be done:
- At least 15 days before the hearing (or 20 days if outside the county)
- By someone over 18 who is not part of the case (or via sheriff or process server)
After service, have your server fill out Form SC-104 (Proof of Service) and file it with the court.
Need help? Professional service of process is included in our filing package:
Step 7: Double Check Before Your Hearing
Make sure you have:
- A filed copy of your SC-100
- A filed proof of service (SC-104)
- All supporting documents
- A printed timeline or summary of events
- At least 2 copies of everything (for the judge and the defendant)
Stay organized, label your exhibits clearly, and arrive early to court.
You Don’t Need to Complete These Forms Alone
Our self-guided online interview makes the paperwork simple. You’ll answer easy-to-understand questions, and we generate your court-ready forms automatically—accurately, with the correct venue, defendant name, and amount.
We also:
- Prepare your demand letter
- File your paperwork with the correct court
- Serve the defendant properly
Provide status updates and next steps
Conclusion
Completing small claims forms in California doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right instructions, examples, and tools, you can file confidently and stay on track from start to finish.
Just follow the steps, double-check your information, and keep everything organized—and you’ll be ready to present your case clearly in court. Need help making sure your paperwork is right the first time?
We’re here to help you every step of the way.
Start your small claims case now:
