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

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

Bottom line: In Hawaii, you can sue for up to $5,000 in small claims court. You file the "Statement of Claim and Notice (Form DC-37)" at the Hawaii small claims court; the filing fee is typically $35-$55, and you do not need a lawyer.
$5,000Maximum claim
$35-$55Filing fee
Statement of Claim and Notice (Form DC-37)Form to file at the Hawaii small claims court

How to sue in Hawaii 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 Hawaii Secretary of State website and sue the registered entity.
  3. Complete and file the Statement of Claim and Notice (Form DC-37) at the Hawaii small claims court. The filing fee is typically $35-$55.
  4. Serve the defendant per Hawaii 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 Hawaii statute of limitations for your specific situation before filing.

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Hawaii small claims FAQ

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

Up to $5,000 in Hawaii small claims court (2026).

What form do you file for small claims in Hawaii?

You file the "Statement of Claim and Notice (Form DC-37)" at the Hawaii small claims court. The filing fee is typically $35-$55.

Do you need a lawyer for small claims in Hawaii?

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

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

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

Small claims guides for other states

AlabamaAlaskaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareFloridaGeorgiaIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowa

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