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

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

Bottom line: In Colorado, you can sue for up to $7,500 in small claims court. You file the "Notice, Claim, and Summons to Appear (JDF 250)" at the Colorado small claims court; the filing fee is typically $31-$55, and you do not need a lawyer.
$7,500Maximum claim
$31-$55Filing fee
Notice, Claim, and Summons to Appear (JDF 250)Form to file at the Colorado small claims court

How to sue in Colorado 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 Colorado Secretary of State website and sue the registered entity.
  3. Complete and file the Notice, Claim, and Summons to Appear (JDF 250) at the Colorado small claims court. The filing fee is typically $31-$55.
  4. Serve the defendant per Colorado 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 Colorado statute of limitations for your specific situation before filing.

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Colorado small claims FAQ

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

Up to $7,500 in Colorado small claims court (2026).

What form do you file for small claims in Colorado?

You file the "Notice, Claim, and Summons to Appear (JDF 250)" at the Colorado small claims court. The filing fee is typically $31-$55.

Do you need a lawyer for small claims in Colorado?

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

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

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

Small claims guides for other states

AlabamaAlaskaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaConnecticutDelawareFloridaGeorgiaHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowa

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