Minnesota Small Claims Court

How it works in Minnesota

1. Use Minnesota Guide & File or the Plaintiff's Statement of Claim form, with both parties' names and addresses, the amount and the reason.
2. File in the county where the defendant lives or does business, unless an exception applies, and pay the fee or ask for a waiver.
3. For claims of $2,500 or less the court mails the claim. Above that, you must arrange service and file proof.
4. Submit exhibits through the state's digital exhibit system at least 3 days before the hearing, and share them with the other side, unless the court says otherwise.
5. Attend the hearing before a judge or referee. The decision comes by written order.

What it costs

$65, plus any county law library fee, and $5 more if you e-file. Defendants pay the same fee on their first filing.

How long you have to sue

Minn. Stat. §§ 541.05, 541.07. These are general limits. The clock can start late, pause or be much shorter, as it is for claims against a government agency.

If you lose

After a contested hearing, either side can remove the case to district court for a brand new trial within 21 days of the notice of judgment (the order states the last day, 24 days if mailed); a default judgment cannot be appealed this way, and the fee is $310.

Official links

• Minnesota small claims self-help
• Court forms
• Find your court