Free tool
Small claims demand letter
Say what you're owed, why, and the date to pay by. Your state's small claims limit shows underneath, so you know whether the amount fits.
Your letter
Yellow brackets are blanks still to fill. Nothing you type is saved or sent anywhere.
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How it works
Why send one first
A clear demand letter often gets a debt paid without court, and if it doesn't, it shows the judge you asked first. Keep it factual and calm, give a reasonable deadline, and keep a copy with proof of sending.
Rather not stand in line at the clerk's window? Have us file your New Jersey small claims case, or have a runner file your court papers.
General information, not legal advice. We are not lawyers. Read your state's rule (linked from our data page) or ask a lawyer before you rely on a deadline.
FAQ
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Do I have to send a demand letter before small claims?
Some courts expect one and many judges like to see that you asked first. It also gets many debts paid without court. General information, not legal advice.
What deadline should I give?
Ten to fourteen days is common. Pick a date you'd accept and stick to it.
How do I make a PDF?
Click Print or save as PDF and choose Save as PDF in the print dialog. Only the letter prints.
Is anything I type saved?
No. The letter is made in your browser and nothing is sent to us.
See each state's small claims limit in our small claims limits by state. More free tools: Executor tracker, Rent increase notice, or see all free tools.
General information, not tax or legal advice. How we write and check our tools.