SC-100 – Plaintiff’s Claim

Jurisdiction: United States — California

What is a SC-100 – Plaintiff’s Claim?

The SC-100 is the form you use to start a small claims case in California. It begins a lawsuit for the money you believe someone owes you. When you file it, the court sets a hearing. The court then issues an “Order to Go to Small Claims Court” that tells the defendant when and where to appear. You serve the filed form on the defendant. At the hearing, a judge or commissioner decides the case.

You typically use this form if you want a money judgment within small claims limits. If you are a person (including a sole proprietor), you can usually ask for up to $10,000. If you are a corporation, LLC, partnership, or other business entity, the limit is usually $5,000. You cannot file more than two small claims cases over $2,500 in one calendar year. You also cannot split one claim into smaller parts to stay under the limits.

This form is for many everyday disputes. You use it for unpaid loans, deposits, invoices, and repair bills. You use it for property damage, like a car accident or water leak. You use it for a landlord’s failure to return a security deposit. You use it when a contractor does poor work and will not refund you. You use it when a business sells you defective goods and refuses a refund. You can file against individuals, businesses, and some government entities. If you sue a public entity, you must meet special pre-claim rules first.

Most small claims cases are between people who know each other. A tenant sues a landlord for a deposit. A homeowner sues a contractor for unfinished work. A freelancer sues a client for unpaid invoices. A driver sues another driver for collision damage. A shopper sues a store for a canceled service that the store did not refund. The SC-100 fits all of these.

You should use this form when informal efforts have failed. The form asks if you demanded payment before filing. The court expects you to ask for payment first. You can make that demand in writing, by phone, or in person. If you did not demand payment, you need a good reason.

Small claims court is designed to be simple and fast. You cannot have a lawyer represent you at the hearing. You can consult a lawyer before or after. You should bring your evidence to court. Bring contracts, receipts, photos, texts, emails, and witnesses. The judge wants clear facts, dates, and amounts.

When Would You Use a SC-100 – Plaintiff’s Claim?

You use the SC-100 after a dispute over money has not been resolved. You have a defendant you can name and serve. You believe the correct county for filing is clear. You are within the filing deadline for your type of claim. You are within the dollar limit for your status.

• A tenant uses it when a landlord will not return a deposit. The tenant moved out, left no unpaid rent, and provided a new address. The landlord kept the whole deposit without a valid itemized statement. The tenant asks for the deposit and any allowable penalties.
• A landlord uses it for unpaid rent or property damage. The tenancy has ended. The landlord documented the damage with photos and estimates. The landlord asks for repair costs above normal wear and tear and any unpaid rent.
• A consumer uses it when a repair shop keeps a car for weeks and does poor work. The shop would not fix it or issue a refund. The consumer seeks the refund and the cost to have another shop fix the problem.
• A small business uses it for unpaid invoices. The business delivered goods or services. The customer accepted delivery but did not pay. The business attaches the contract, invoices, and delivery records. If the business is a corporation or LLC, it respects the $5,000 limit.
• A driver uses it after a minor collision. The other driver admitted fault and gave insurance details. The insurer delayed or denied payment. The driver pays for repairs and sues the at-fault driver for the repair bill and rental car costs.
• A homeowner uses it after a neighbor’s tree fell and damaged a fence. The neighbor refused to contribute. The homeowner got estimates and had the work done. The homeowner sues for the cost.

You do not use the SC-100 to evict a tenant. That is a different process. You do not use it for divorce, custody, guardianship, or restraining orders. You do not use it for federal claims or complex injunctions. You can sue for money related to these areas, but not for the orders themselves.

If you plan to sue a government entity, you must file a government claim first. There are short deadlines for that. Only after rejection or a waiting period can you file the SC-100. If your dispute is about attorney’s fees, you may need to complete a fee dispute process before filing. The SC-100 asks about that.

Legal Characteristics of the SC-100 – Plaintiff’s Claim

The SC-100 is a court pleading. Filing it opens a case in small claims court. The court sets a hearing and issues an order for the defendant to attend. The case proceeds to a judgment. If you win, the judgment is legally binding. It is enforceable across California. You can collect using standard judgment tools. These include wage garnishment, bank levies, liens, and orders to appear for examination. Interest accrues on unpaid judgments.

Enforceability depends on several basics. You must file in the proper county. The form asks you to state why your chosen county is proper. Common reasons include where the defendant lives or does business. Or where the contract was made or performed. Or where the damage occurred. You must also name the defendant correctly. If you sue a business, use its legal name and type. If you sue a corporation or LLC, list the correct legal name. If you sue a business using a fictitious name, list the owner’s legal name. If you sue a public entity, use its legal name and confirm you met pre-claim rules.

Proper service is also critical. You must have a nonparty serve the defendant with the filed papers. You can use personal service, substituted service, or certified mail by the court if available. The form lists deadline rules for service before the hearing. If you miss them, the court may postpone or dismiss your case. Always file proof of service before the hearing.

Small claims court has strict monetary limits. You cannot ask for more than the allowed cap for your status. You cannot file more than two cases over $2,500 in one year. You cannot split one claim to stay under the cap. If your claim is higher than the limit, you can waive the excess to stay in small claims. You can also file in a higher court instead.

Lawyers cannot represent parties at the small claims hearing. This keeps the process simple. You can still prepare with legal help. Corporations and LLCs can appear through employees or officers. Interpreters are allowed. You can request disability accommodations.

Statutes of limitations apply. File by the deadline for your claim type. These deadlines vary by claim. Delay can bar your claim even in small claims court. The court will not extend these deadlines without a legal basis.

The plaintiff’s right to appeal is limited. If you lose on your claim, you generally cannot appeal. The defendant can appeal a judgment against them. If the defendant appeals, the case is heard again in a higher trial department. You can still enforce a judgment if no appeal is filed within the deadline.

Costs and interest are recoverable. If you win, the court can add your filing fee and service costs to the judgment. If your contract allows pre-judgment interest, you can claim it. The court may award it if the law supports it and your math is clear.

How to Fill Out a SC-100 – Plaintiff’s Claim

Follow these steps to complete the form accurately. Use black ink. Type or print clearly. Keep copies of everything you file and serve.

1) Confirm you should file in small claims

• Check your claim amount. If you are a person, your cap is usually $10,000. If you are a business entity, your cap is usually $5,000.
• Count your filings. You cannot file more than two cases over $2,500 this year.
• Verify the county. File where the defendant lives or does business, or where the events occurred, or where the contract was made or carried out.
• Demand payment first. Ask the defendant to pay before you file. The form asks if you did. Be ready to say how and when.

2) Fill in plaintiff information

• List your full legal name. If you are a sole proprietor, list your personal name. You can add your business name as “doing business as.”
• Provide your mailing address, city, state, and ZIP code. Use an address where you get mail. Add a phone number and email if asked.
• If there is more than one plaintiff, list each one. If you need more space, use an attachment page labeled “Additional Plaintiffs.”

3) Name the defendant correctly

• For an individual, use the person’s full legal name and service address.
• For a business, use the exact legal name and type (corporation, LLC, partnership). For a fictitious business name, list the real owner’s legal name.
• For a corporation or LLC, identify the registered agent if you will serve that agent.
• For a landlord, list the property owner, not just the property manager.
• If there are multiple defendants, list each one with a service address. Use an “Additional Defendants” attachment if needed.

4) State the amount you are claiming

• Enter the principal amount you want. This is your actual loss.
• Add court costs you have paid, like filing and service fees. You can update costs later.
• If claiming pre-judgment interest by law or contract, show your calculation. State the rate, dates, and amount. If unsure, you can leave interest out or state “interest according to proof.”
• Total the claim. Keep your total at or below the cap for your status.

Example: You loaned $2,000 on March 1 and were due on June 1. The borrower never paid. You file for $2,000 plus your filing fee and service fee. If your agreement has 10% interest, you show the accrued interest to the filing date.

5) Describe what happened and why the defendant owes you

• Use clear, simple facts. Say what was agreed, what happened, and what went wrong.
• Include dates, places, amounts, and promises made.
• Explain how you calculated your loss. Reference attached receipts or estimates.
• Keep it factual. Avoid opinions and long stories.

Example: “On May 15, I paid $1,800 to ABC Plumbing to replace a water heater. The work failed inspection on May 20. ABC refused to fix it. I paid another contractor $1,200 to correct it. I seek $1,200 plus my filing fee.”

6) Identify when the events occurred

• State the exact date of the incident, delivery, service, payment, or breach.
• If the issue happened over time, provide a start and end date.
• If your claim relies on a deadline in a contract, name that date.

7) Explain why this county is the right place to file

• Check or write the reason that fits your case. Common reasons include:
• The defendant lives or does business in this county.
• The contract was made, signed, or performed in this county.
• The damage or injury happened in this county.
• The buyer purchased goods or services in this county.
• Add one short sentence that links your facts to this county.

Example: “The car accident occurred at Main and 3rd in this county.”

8) Address special claim types

• If suing a public entity, confirm you filed a required claim with that entity. State the date you filed it and received a response, or that time passed without a response.
• If your claim involves attorney’s fees, state if you completed any required fee dispute step or why it does not apply.

9) State how many small claims you filed this year

• The form asks how many claims you have filed in the last 12 months. Answer truthfully.
• Remember, you cannot file more than two claims over $2,500 in one year.

10) Interpreter and accommodation needs

• If you need an interpreter for the hearing, tell the clerk when you file. You can also bring an adult interpreter to court.
• If you need disability accommodations, ask the clerk for the process to request them.

11) Review service of process requirements

• You must have someone 18 or older, who is not a party, serve the defendant. You can also use a professional process server.
• Some courts offer certified mail service by the clerk for a fee. This only works if the defendant signs for the mail.
• Service must be completed well before the hearing. The deadlines depend on where the defendant is and how you serve. The form provides the minimum days required.
• Plan service early. After service, file a proof of service form with the court.

12) Sign and date the form

• Read the declaration above the signature line. You are signing under penalty of perjury.
• Sign and date. Print your name below your signature.
• If you are a business, an owner, officer, or authorized employee must sign. State your title.
• If you are under 18, a guardian must file and sign on your behalf.

13) Attach supporting pages if needed

• If you need more space for parties or facts, attach a page. Title it “Attachment to SC-100” and reference the section number.
• Number your pages. Keep your facts concise.
• You do not need to file your evidence now. You may attach a short summary of key documents and your damage calculation. Bring full evidence to the hearing.

14) File the form with the court

• Make at least two copies of everything. Keep one. You will need one to serve.
• File at the correct small claims courthouse for the county. You can file in person or, where available, by mail or online.
• Pay the filing fee. The fee depends on your claim amount and how many claims you have filed this year.
• If you cannot afford the fee, ask the clerk about a fee waiver.

After filing, the clerk will complete the “Order to Go to Small Claims Court” on your form. This sets the date, time, department, and courthouse address for the hearing. The clerk returns conformed copies to you. Serve the defendant with the stamped SC-100 and any required attachments. File proof of service before the deadline.

15) Prepare for the hearing

• Organize your evidence. Put documents in date order. Label photos and estimates.
• Prepare a short outline of what you will say. Focus on facts, dates, and numbers.
• Make at least two sets of copies for the court and the other side.
• Arrange for witnesses to attend. Get written statements only if live testimony is not possible.

Practical examples of correct completion

• • Security deposit: You are a tenant in the “what happened” section, state move-in and move-out dates, rent amount, deposit amount, notice given, and why no deductions apply. Attach your move-out photos and the landlord’s deductions letter, if any. Claim the deposit and any allowed penalties, plus costs.
  • Unpaid invoice: You are a sole proprietor. Enter your legal name and your business name as “doing business as.” For the defendant, use the company’s legal name. In your narrative, cite the purchase order, delivery date, and invoice due date. Attach the invoice and proof of delivery. Claim the invoice balance and costs.
  • Auto damage: You are the vehicle owner. List the at-fault driver as the defendant. In your narrative, give the accident date, location, and police report number if you have one. Attach repair estimates or the paid invoice. Claim repair costs and rental car fees.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Suing the wrong party. Identify who owes you. For rentals, name the property owner. For franchised businesses, name the correct corporate entity.
• Picking the wrong county. Tie your case to a clear venue reason on the form.
• Overstating the amount. Claim only actual losses you can prove.
• Missing service deadlines. Serve early and file proof of service on time.
• Leaving the signature blank. The court will not accept an unsigned form.

If you complete each section carefully, you set your case up for a smooth hearing. Clear facts, proper venue, correct parties, and timely service do the heavy lifting. Bring your evidence and stay concise. You will be ready to present your claim.

Legal Terms You Might Encounter

• Plaintiff means you, the person filing the claim. On SC-100, you list your full legal name, mailing address, and contact info. If you are a business, use the exact legal name and any “doing business as.” This ensures the court and the defendant can identify you correctly.
• Defendant is the person or business you are suing. On SC-100, you must use the correct legal name and service address. If you sue the wrong party or use a bad address, your case can stall or fail. Confirm who is responsible before you file.
• Claim is the reason you want money or property. SC-100 asks what happened, when it happened, and how much you want. Keep it factual. Tie the amount you seek to receipts, contracts, or other proof.
• Jurisdiction is the court’s authority to hear your case. For SC-100, you file where the law allows your dispute to be heard. SC-100 asks for facts that support why this court is the right place. Choose the correct county and courthouse based on the dispute’s connection.
• Venue is the most appropriate location within the court system. SC-100 includes prompts that help you show why this courthouse is proper. For example, where the defendant lives or where the event happened. The wrong venue can delay your case.
• Service of process is the formal delivery of SC-100 to the defendant. The court must see evidence that the defendant got the papers. You cannot serve the claim yourself. Service deadlines apply. Miss them, and your hearing may be postponed.
• Proof of service is the document your server completes after service. It confirms when, where, and how the defendant received SC-100. File it before your hearing. Without it, the judge may not proceed.
• Hearing is your court date. After you file SC-100, the clerk sets the hearing. You and the defendant will present evidence and answer questions. Bring originals and copies of your exhibits. Arrive early.
• Judgment is the court’s final decision after the hearing. If you win, the judgment states how much the defendant owes. If you lose, your claim is denied. SC-100 starts the process that leads to judgment.
• Default judgment happens if the defendant was properly served but does not appear. The judge can decide in your favor based on your evidence. Your proof must still support the amount you claim.
• Continuance is a new hearing date granted by the court. It may happen if the service was late, a party needs more time, or the judge requires more evidence. You still must meet deadlines and follow instructions.
• Dismissal ends your case. It can be “without prejudice” (you may refile) or “with prejudice” (you cannot refile). Your case may be dismissed if you fail to serve, appear, or follow court rules. You may also request dismissal if you settle.
• Counterclaim is the defendant’s claim against you. In small claims, the defendant can file their own claim. This is separate paperwork. Be ready to address it at the same hearing.
• Costs are the amount you are allowed out-of-pocket for case expenses. These can include filing and service fees. If you win, the judge may add costs to the judgment. Track receipts so you can request them.

FAQs

Do you need the defendant’s exact legal name on SC-100?

Yes. Use the defendant’s full legal name. For a person, use the name on the government ID if possible. For a business, use the legal entity name and any “doing business as.” If you sue the wrong party, you may not collect, even if you win. If you are unsure, check public records or business filings. List every responsible party as a separate defendant.

Do you have to attach evidence to SC-100?

You don’t have to attach evidence to SC-100. You do need to bring it to the hearing. Keep it organized and labeled. Bring contracts, photos, messages, invoices, and witness statements. Make at least two sets of copies, plus originals. Attachments are optional but can help clarify your claim.

Do you need to list how you calculated the amount on SC-100?

Yes. Be specific. Break the amount into parts, such as principal, itemized losses, and allowed costs. Show the math and dates. Use receipts, estimates, or statements. Vague totals weaken your case. Clear calculations show the judge exactly how you reached your number.

Do you need the defendant’s service address to file?

You can file without it, but you cannot move forward without service. Identify a valid address where the defendant can be served. For a business, use the agent for service or the principal office. For a person, use a residence or workplace. No service equals no hearing on the merits.

Do you need to sign SC-100 under penalty of perjury?

Yes. Your signature confirms the information is true. Read every section before signing. If something changes, correct it before filing or ask the court how to update it later. The court treats your signature as a sworn statement.

Do you have to serve SC-100 yourself?

No. You cannot serve the papers yourself. Arrange service by someone allowed to serve, or use a permitted method. The server must complete a proof of service. File that proof before the hearing. Late or improper service can delay or dismiss your case.

Do you need to attend the hearing after filing SC-100?

Yes. If you do not appear, the case can be dismissed. If the defendant appears and you do not, you may lose. Bring your evidence, notes, and a concise timeline. Be ready to explain what happened and what you want.

Can you change your claim after filing SC-100?

You can correct some issues. Before service, you can file an updated claim and serve it. After the service, you may need court approval or to ask at the hearing. If you add new defendants or increase the amount, you must serve the updated claim and meet deadlines. Plan your filing to minimize changes later.

Checklist: Before, During, and After the SC-100 – Plaintiff’s Claim

Before signing SC-100: Gather information and documents

• Full legal name for each defendant.
• Correct service address for each defendant.
• Your full legal name and mailing address.
• Description of what happened, with dates and locations.
• Exact claim amount and itemized calculation.
• Contracts, invoices, estimates, photos, messages, or logs.
• Proof you asked for payment or return of property.
• Any prior repairs, inspections, or appraisals.
• Costs you plan to request, like filing and service fees.
• Names and contact info for witnesses.
• If you need accommodations or an interpreter, note that now.
• If you are a business, your legal entity name and capacity to sue.

During completion and signing: Verify every required section

• Court location matches where your case belongs.
• All plaintiffs and defendants are listed with correct names.
• Business defendants include the legal entity type and any “doing business as.”
• Service address for each defendant is complete and deliverable.
• The claim amount matches your calculation sheet.
• The incident description is clear, brief, and factual.
• You included dates for key events and losses.
• You answered every required question on the form.
• Attachments are labeled, paginated, and referenced on the form.
• Your contact information is current and legible.
• You signed and dated the form where indicated.
• You kept a clean copy for your records.

After signing: Filing, notifying, and storing

• Make copies: one for the court, one for you, and one per defendant.
• File SC-100 with the proper small claims courthouse.
• Pay the filing fee or submit a completed fee waiver request.
• Receive your hearing date and note service deadlines.
• Arrange service for each defendant using an allowed method.
• After service, ensure the server completes the proof of service.
• File the proof of service before the hearing.
• Calendar your hearing date, time, and room.
• Prepare your evidence binder with copies for the court and defendant.
• Store a full set of filed papers and proofs in one secure place.
• Confirm your transportation and arrival plan for the hearing.
• If you move, file a change of address so you receive court notices.

Common Mistakes to Avoid SC-100 – Plaintiff’s Claim

• Naming the wrong defendant
• Consequence: You can win but be unable to collect. You may need to refile or amend.
• Tip: Don’t forget to confirm the exact legal entity and agent details.

• Filing in the wrong courthouse
• Consequence: Delay, transfer, or dismissal. You lose time and money.
• Tip: Don’t forget to tie your case to the correct location by clear facts.

• Vague claim description and lump-sum amount
• Consequence: The judge may doubt your numbers or reduce your award.
• Tip: Don’t forget to itemize losses and show how you calculated each part.

• Missing service deadlines or improper service
• Consequence: The hearing may be continued or dismissed.
• Tip: Don’t forget to use an allowed server and file the proof on time.

• Incomplete signatures or contact information
• Consequence: The court may reject your filing or fail to reach you.
• Tip: Don’t forget to sign, date, and print your name clearly on SC-100.

What to Do After Filling Out the Form SC-100 – Plaintiff’s Claim

File your claim

• Make the correct number of copies. Keep your original for filing if required in your court, and a copy for yourself.
• File SC-100 at the proper small claims courthouse.
• Pay the filing fee or submit a fee waiver request. Keep your receipt.
• Get your hearing date and any instructions for service.

Serve the defendant

• Choose an allowed service method. You cannot serve the papers yourself.
• Provide the server with stamped copies of SC-100 and any required attachments.
• Track the service deadline on your calendar.
• After service, have the server complete the proof of service with all details.

File proof of service

• Review the proof of service for accuracy and completeness.
• File it with the court before your hearing.
• Keep a copy with your records and bring one to the hearing.

Prepare your evidence

• Organize evidence by topic and date. Label each exhibit.
• Prepare a concise statement of what happened and what you want.
• Make two sets of copies of all exhibits. Bring originals.
• Line up witnesses and confirm their availability.

Consider settlement

• If you settle, document the terms in writing and follow court guidance for dismissals or judgments.
• If you receive payment, keep proof of payment and any settlement agreement.

Amendments and corrections

• If you catch a mistake before service, file an updated SC-100 and use that version for service.
• If you need to change the claim after service, ask the court how to proceed. Some changes require approval or a new hearing date.
• If you add a defendant or increase the amount, plan to serve again and meet new deadlines.

Bring everything to the hearing

• Bring your ID, copies of SC-100, proof of service, and evidence sets.
• Bring a simple timeline and calculation sheet.
• Arrive early and check in with the clerk.

After the hearing

• If you win, ask how to add allowable costs. Record any deadlines.
• If you lose, note any options the judge mentions.
• Keep the judgment, minute order, or dismissal with your records.

Tracking and recordkeeping

• Maintain a complete file: SC-100, copies, proofs of service, evidence list, and notes.
• Update your calendar for all deadlines and hearing dates.
• If addresses change, update the court and the other party.

If nothing happens before the hearing

• Do not assume the case is canceled. You still must appear unless the court tells you otherwise.
• If you cannot attend, request a continuance as early as possible, following court rules.

If the defendant files a counterclaim

• Review it carefully and prepare your response and evidence.
• Bring separate copies for that claim as well.