Texas Small Claims Court Limit
Justice of the Peace Court (JP Court)
Injury: 2 years
Texas JP Courts cover claims up to $20,000 — among the highest in the country. Texas uses an EFSP (Electronic Filing Service Provider) system for online filings. Flash Justice is a certified EFSP, making it one of the easiest states to file in online.
What makes Texas different
Texas has one of the highest small claims limits in the country at $20,000, making JP Court a viable option for substantial disputes. Texas is also one of the most e-filing-friendly states - all filings go through certified Electronic Filing Service Providers (EFSPs), meaning you can file your case entirely online without visiting the courthouse. The $54 base filing fee is moderate, but constable service fees (typically $75-$150) add to the total cost. Texas requires the defendant to be served at least 14 days before the hearing date. If the defendant does not appear, you can request a default judgment. Texas JP Courts also handle eviction cases, debt claims, and repair-and-remedy disputes in addition to standard small claims. Judgments can be collected through wage garnishment, bank levies, and property liens. Either party can appeal to County Court for a full new trial.
Typical timeline
After filing, the defendant must be served by constable, private process server, or certified mail. Service must be completed at least 14 days before the hearing. Hearings are typically set 30-60 days after filing.
Statute reference
Tex. Gov't Code § 27.031; Texas Rules of Civil Procedure Rules 500-510
Official court website
https://www.txcourts.gov/programs-services/judicial-resources/justice-court/About Texas Small Claims Court
Texas small claims are filed in Justice of the Peace (JP) Court and cover disputes up to $20,000, excluding statutory interest and court costs. Attorneys are allowed but most plaintiffs represent themselves. Texas has a 4-year statute of limitations for both written and oral contracts — generous and consistent. The base filing fee is $54, with additional constable fees for service. Filing is available online through certified Electronic Filing Service Providers (EFSPs). Judgments can be collected through wage garnishment and property liens.
Source: Tex. Gov't Code § 27.031; TRCP Rule 500.3(a). Official court website →
Filing a Claim in Texas?
Flash Justice helps you prepare your Texas Justice Court (JP Court) petition and documentation package. No attorney required — file for up to $20,000.
Start Your Texas Filing →How Texas Compares
| State | Limit | Court |
|---|---|---|
| Delaware | $25,000 | Justice of the Peace Court |
| Tennessee | $25,000 | General Sessions Court |
| Minnesota | $20,000 | Conciliation Court |
| Texas ← | $20,000 | Justice of the Peace Court |
| Utah | $20,000 | Small Claims Court |
| Georgia | $15,000 | Magistrate Court |
| North Dakota | $15,000 | Small Claims Court |
| California | $12,500 | Small Claims Court |
| Pennsylvania | $12,000 | Magisterial District Court |
| South Dakota | $12,000 | Small Claims Court |