This page provides general legal information and calculation tools, not legal advice. DocketMath is not a law firm and does not provide legal representation, and using this site does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws change and exceptions apply, so deadlines and amounts specific to your situation should be confirmed with a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction.

Illinois — Small Claims Court Limit

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$10,000

Maximum claim amount in small-claims court. Enter your claim amount below to check eligibility.

Ill. Sup. Ct. R. 281

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Illinois Small Claims Court Maximum Amount Under Rule 281

In Illinois, the maximum amount a party can seek in small claims court is $10,000, as established by Illinois Supreme Court Rule 281. This limit applies to the total amount of damages or money demanded in the complaint, excluding court costs and interest. Claims exceeding this threshold must be filed in a higher court division. Rule 281 sets out the jurisdictional boundary for small claims proceedings, ensuring that cases under this cap follow simplified procedures. The official source from the Illinois Courts provides the exact text of the rule and any exceptions. For a specific case, the calculator below can estimate whether a claim falls within this limit.

Governing authority

In Illinois, the small claims fee limit rule is set by Ill. Sup. Ct. R. 281. The verified packet cites Ill. Sup. Ct. R. 281 (https://www.illinoiscourts.gov/resources/7e33f8da-3efb-48b2-8c20-1257037e97ec/file).

Illinois small claims fee limit: the verified value is $10,000 under Ill. Sup. Ct. R. 281. The verified packet cites Ill. Sup. Ct. R. 281 (https://www.illinoiscourts.gov/resources/7e33f8da-3efb-48b2-8c20-1257037e97ec/file).

Estimate your own result: every situation has exceptions that can change the outcome. Use the small claims fee limit calculator to estimate your specific figure.

This page provides general legal information and calculation tools, not legal advice. DocketMath is not a law firm and does not provide legal representation, and using this site does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws change and exceptions apply, so deadlines and amounts specific to your situation should be confirmed with a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction.