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How to File a Small Claims Case in South Carolina (2026)

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

Bottom line: In South Carolina, you can sue for up to $7,500 in small claims court. You file the "Summons and Complaint (Magistrate Court)" at the South Carolina Magistrate Court; the filing fee is typically $40-$80, and you do not need a lawyer.

$7,500Maximum claim

$40-$80Filing fee

Summons and Complaint (Magistrate Court)Form to file at the South Carolina Magistrate Court

How to sue in South Carolina small claims court

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.
Confirm the defendant's exact legal name and address. For a business, look it up on the South Carolina Secretary of State website and sue the registered entity.
Complete and file the Summons and Complaint (Magistrate Court) at the South Carolina Magistrate Court. The filing fee is typically $40-$80.
Serve the defendant per South Carolina rules (a non-party adult, sheriff, process server, or certified mail), then file the Proof of Service with the court.
Prepare your evidence (contracts, photos, texts, receipts - 3 copies of each) and attend your hearing.

Statute of limitations by claim type

Claim type	Typical deadline to sue
security deposit	1-6 years (deposit claims often have their own short deadline; many states require return within 14-30 days of move-out)
unpaid invoice	written contract typically 3-6 years; oral 2-4 years
unpaid loan	written 3-6 years; oral 2-4 years
breach of contract	written contract typically 3-6 years (CA 4, TX 4, FL 5); oral 2-4 years
property damage	typically 2-6 years (TX 2, CA 3, FL 4)
refund	written contract / warranty typically 3-6 years; consumer-protection deadlines vary
other	commonly 2-6 years depending on whether the claim is written, oral, or property-based

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

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South Carolina small claims FAQ

How much can you sue for in small claims court in South Carolina?

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

What form do you file for small claims in South Carolina?

You file the "Summons and Complaint (Magistrate Court)" at the South Carolina Magistrate Court. The filing fee is typically $40-$80.

Do you need a lawyer for small claims in South Carolina?

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

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

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

Small claims guides for other states

Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana

GetSmallClaims is not a law firm and this is not legal advice. Court limits, fees, forms, and deadlines change - verify with the South Carolina Magistrate Court before filing.