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How to File a Small Claims Case in Arizona (2026)

Updated June 10, 2026 · Self-help guide, not legal advice. Verify details with your local court.

Bottom line: In Arizona, you can sue for up to $3,500 in small claims court. You file the "Plaintiff's Statement of Small Claim" at the Arizona small claims court; the filing fee is typically $22-$68, and you do not need a lawyer.
$3,500Maximum claim
$22-$68Filing fee
Plaintiff's Statement of Small ClaimForm to file at the Arizona small claims court

How to sue in Arizona small claims court

  1. Send a demand letter first. Put your demand in writing (the amount owed + a deadline) before filing - many courts expect it and it often settles the dispute.
  2. Confirm the defendant's exact legal name and address. For a business, look it up on the Arizona Secretary of State website and sue the registered entity.
  3. Complete and file the Plaintiff's Statement of Small Claim at the Arizona small claims court. The filing fee is typically $22-$68.
  4. Serve the defendant per Arizona rules (a non-party adult, sheriff, process server, or certified mail), then file the Proof of Service with the court.
  5. Prepare your evidence (contracts, photos, texts, receipts - 3 copies of each) and attend your hearing.

Statute of limitations by claim type

Claim typeTypical deadline to sue
security deposit1-6 years (deposit claims often have their own short deadline; many states require return within 14-30 days of move-out)
unpaid invoicewritten contract typically 3-6 years; oral 2-4 years
unpaid loanwritten 3-6 years; oral 2-4 years
breach of contractwritten contract typically 3-6 years (CA 4, TX 4, FL 5); oral 2-4 years
property damagetypically 2-6 years (TX 2, CA 3, FL 4)
refundwritten contract / warranty typically 3-6 years; consumer-protection deadlines vary
othercommonly 2-6 years depending on whether the claim is written, oral, or property-based

Deadlines vary by state and claim - always verify the Arizona statute of limitations for your specific situation before filing.

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Arizona small claims FAQ

How much can you sue for in small claims court in Arizona?

Up to $3,500 in Arizona small claims court (2026).

What form do you file for small claims in Arizona?

You file the "Plaintiff's Statement of Small Claim" at the Arizona small claims court. The filing fee is typically $22-$68.

Do you need a lawyer for small claims in Arizona?

No. Small claims court is designed for self-represented people; you do not need a lawyer to file in Arizona.

How long do you have to file a small claims case in Arizona?

It depends on the claim type - commonly 2-6 years. Verify your specific deadline (statute of limitations) for Arizona before filing.

Small claims guides for other states

AlabamaAlaskaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareFloridaGeorgiaHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowa

GetSmallClaims is not a law firm and this is not legal advice. Court limits, fees, forms, and deadlines change - verify with the Arizona small claims court before filing.