Important update for anyone filing small claims in California in 2026: the Judicial Council approved new fee schedules effective January 1, 2026. Filing fees are now $30 for claims up to $1,500, $50 for claims $1,501-$5,000, $75 for claims $5,001-$10,000, and $100 for claims $10,001-$12,500. These fees are waivable for low-income filers using Form FW-001.
Also, several counties have expanded their online filing systems. Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, and Orange County now allow you to file small claims petitions entirely online through their court websites, including paying the filing fee and uploading supporting documents. This eliminates the need to physically go to the courthouse for filing, though you still need to appear for the hearing.
Finally, for collection after judgment: California now allows small claims winners to file a Judgment Debtor Examination (Form SC-134) to compel the losing party to appear in court and disclose their assets, bank accounts, and income sources. This is the most powerful post-judgment collection tool available. If the debtor fails to appear, the court can issue a bench warrant. Use it if the defendant does not pay within 30 days of the judgment.