# Michigan Small Claims Court (2026): $7,000 Limit & Fees

- Link: https://clearlegaltips.com/michigan-small-claims-court/
- Published: 2026-11-10T11:36:29-05:00
- Author: ClearLegalTips

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## Download This Resource

Free to download — no sign-up, no email, no account required

Two free Michigan worksheets: a step-by-step filing checklist and a hearing and 
collection planner:

[Filing ChecklistCourt, fees, form](https://clearlegaltips.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/mi-small-claims-filing-checklist.pdf)
[Hearing & Collection PlannerEvidence to payment](https://clearlegaltips.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/mi-small-claims-hearing-and-collection-planner.pdf)

**The short version (2026):** Michigan small claims court hears **money claims up
to $7,000**. Filing costs **$30, $50 or $70**, depending on the amount you claim.
Unless someone moves the case out of small claims, there is no jury, lawyers generally
can’t take part, and a judge’s decision is final. A magistrate’s decision can be
appealed within **7 days**. Before the trial begins, either side can ask for a regular
judge or move the case to the general civil division. Your hearing comes 15 to 45
days after the date of the notice.

Michigan small claims court is where you ask a judge to order someone to pay you.
Say a landlord kept your deposit. Or a contractor took a down payment and did not
finish the job. Or a friend still owes you for a loan. Each district court has a
small claims division. It handles claims for money only.

A few abbreviations first. MCL means the Michigan Compiled Laws, the state’s statute
book. MCR means the Michigan Court Rules. SCAO stands for the State Court Administrative
Office, the agency that publishes the court forms. None of this is legal advice.
Every legal rule here comes from an official court or legislative text that we read
and checked in November 2026. The places where we lean on Michigan Legal Help (michiganlegalhelp.
org) say so.

## The Michigan Small Claims Court Limit: $7,000

![Card: Michigan small claims limit, $7,000 for money claims since January 1, 2024](
https://i0.wp.com/clearlegaltips.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/michigan-small-claims-
court-01-limit.jpg?resize=1200%2C630&ssl=1)

Right now, the Michigan small claims court limit is $7,000. That figure took effect
January 1, 2024. The first step in MCL 600.8401’s list was $5,000 on September 1,
2012, and the 2024 step is the last one. The division hears claims for money only.
SCAO’s instruction sheet for plaintiffs, form DC 84info, adds that the court can’t
order more than $7,000, even if your claim is worth more.

What if you are owed more? Filing is still allowed, but you may not claim or recover
more than the limit (MCL 600.8425(1)). The filing must state that you waive, meaning
give up, the excess. A judgment on the claim then bars a later lawsuit in any court
to recover it (MCR 4.302(D)). With a claim far above the limit, a lawyer or legal
aid office can tell you whether a regular court is the better fit.

Small claims comes with other trade-offs. Unless the case is removed, the parties
are treated as having given up a lawyer, a jury trial, recovery above the limit 
and any appeal, except the magistrate appeal covered below (MCL 600.8412). The affidavit
is a written statement you sign and swear is true. It has to say you understand 
all of this.

## Michigan Small Claims Court Filing Fees: $30, $50 or $70

![Card: Michigan small claims filing fees, $30, $50 or $70 including the $5 electronic
filing fee](https://i0.wp.com/clearlegaltips.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/michigan-
small-claims-court-02-fees.jpg?resize=1200%2C630&ssl=1)

Michigan sets the fee by the size of your claim, in the three tiers below. Add the
$5 electronic filing system fee for small claims civil actions (MCL 600.1986(1)(
d)) and you get the $30, $50 and $70 on the SCAO sheet. Other charges follow the
table.

  |  Your claim |  Statute (MCL 600.8420(1)) |  Total with the $5 fee (DC 84info) |  
   |  Does not exceed $600 |  $25 |  $30 |  
 |  Exceeds $600 but does not exceed $1,750 |  $45 |  $50 |  
 |  Exceeds $1,750 (up to the $7,000 limit) |  $65 |  $70 |

 * **Mailing.** When the clerk mails a copy to a defendant, the fee equals the prevailing
   postal rate for each defendant (MCL 600.8420(2)).
 * **Court papers after you win.** A $15 fee is charged for issuing a writ of execution,
   attachment or garnishment, and for issuing a judgment debtor discovery subpoena(
   MCL 600.8420(2)).
 * **Costs at the end.** The prevailing party is entitled to the costs of the action
   and the costs of execution, including the cost of serving the notice (MCL 600.8421).

If you can’t afford the fee, file a Fee Waiver Request (form MC 20) with your affidavit(
DC 84info). Only an individual can get a waiver, not a business or organization (
MCR 2.002(A)(1)). If you show that you receive means-tested public assistance, the
clerk must waive the fees (MCR 2.002(C)). A waiver of the filing fee for indigence
also waives the $5 electronic filing fee (MCL 600.1986(3)). SCAO plans to redesign
this form, so download the current version from the court.

**Want to ask for payment in writing first?** LawDepot’s payment demand letter is
a template tool. It helps you write and format the letter, but it does not file 
anything with a court, and it does not replace advice about your own case.

[Browse LawDepot Templates →](https://clearlegaltips.com/go/lawdepot-payment-demand-letter)

## Claims Michigan Small Claims Court Cannot Hear

![Card: claims Michigan small claims court cannot hear, intentional torts, property
orders, assignee claims](https://i0.wp.com/clearlegaltips.com/wp-content/uploads/
2026/11/michigan-small-claims-court-03-excluded.jpg?resize=1200%2C630&ssl=1)

Because the division is limited to money, some disputes belong somewhere else:

  |  Type of case |  What the sources say |  
   |  Fraud, libel, slander, assault, battery and other intentional torts (deliberate wrongs) |  They cannot be instituted in small claims. Exceptions: an action for fraud under MCL 600.2952 or under the Michigan consumer protection act, and an action under MCL 324.73109 (MCL 600.8424(1)). |  
 |  Getting property back, or an order that someone do or stop doing something |  DC 84info says you can’t ask for these in small claims. |  
 |  A claim brought by an assignee or a third party beneficiary |  It “shall not be filed or prosecuted” in the division (MCL 600.8407(1)). An assignee is someone who was handed a claim that belonged to another person. |  
 |  The state and other governmental agencies |  They cannot be parties. A county, city, village, township or school district may file and may be sued, but a party cannot make a claim that the local government is immune from (MCL 600.8424). |

Plenty of ordinary money disputes do fit. Michigan Legal Help lists a security deposit
dispute, a contract dispute, a car accident the insurance didn’t cover, a dishonored
check, a consumer protection violation and a recreational trespass. A dishonored
check is one the bank did not pay. Under MCL 600.2952(1), the maker of a dishonored
check is liable for the amount, a processing fee, civil damages and costs.

## Who Can File and Who Can Appear in Michigan Small Claims Court

![Card: who can file and appear in Michigan small claims court, no lawyers except
on their own behalf, five claims a week](https://i0.wp.com/clearlegaltips.com/wp-
content/uploads/2026/11/michigan-small-claims-court-04-who.jpg?resize=1200%2C630&
ssl=1)

### Who files

If you file for yourself, you sign the affidavit. A guardian, conservator or next
friend signs for a plaintiff who can’t (MCR 4.302(B)(1)). There is a weekly cap.
A person may file five claims in a district’s small claims division in one week,
while a county, city, village or township may file up to 20 (MCL 600.8407(2)).

Businesses have their own signing rule. A sole proprietorship or partnership files
through the proprietor, a partner or a full-time salaried employee. A corporation
files through a full-time salaried employee who knows the facts (MCL 600.8407(3);
MCR 4.302(B)(2)).

![Card: business plaintiffs in Michigan small claims court, sole proprietorship,
partnership and corporation signers, and asking the clerk about LLCs](https://i0.
wp.com/clearlegaltips.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/michigan-small-claims-court-
05-business.jpg?resize=1200%2C630&ssl=1)

Limited liability companies get a note of their own. The small claims statutes and
court rule name sole proprietorships, partnerships and corporations, but not LLCs.
The DC 84 form offers an “other” choice for the type of party. If you are an LLC,
ask the clerk which box and which signer your court expects.

### Who speaks at the hearing

MCL 600.8408(1) says an attorney, except on the attorney’s own behalf, a collection
agency or its agent or employee, or a person other than the plaintiff and defendant“
shall not take part” in filing, prosecuting or defending a small claims case, unless
the chapter provides otherwise. DC 84 also says the plaintiff gives up the right
to an attorney. The statute is the rule that controls, and its exception for an 
attorney acting for themself is narrow, so plan to appear without one. Removal, 
explained below, changes this.

A sole proprietorship, partnership or corporation can be represented by an officer
or employee with direct and personal knowledge of the facts in dispute. If that 
person is no longer employed or is medically unavailable, a supervisor, the sole
proprietor, a partner, an officer or a board member can step in (MCL 600.8408(2)).

MCL 445.251(1)(b) defines a collection agency as a person directly engaged in collecting
a claim owed to another. The definition reaches further. It also covers a person
who supplies a form or written demand service when the form carries someone else’s
name, not the creditor’s, in a way that makes it look like that person is demanding
payment.

A business can be sued in any name it uses publicly, such as a name on a sign, invoice
or business card. A judgment in that name is valid as long as it identifies the 
business accurately by a location or mailing address (MCL 600.8426).

## Filing a Michigan Small Claims Case: Step by Step

![Card: steps to file a Michigan small claims case, form DC 84, notary or deputy
clerk, file in the right county](https://i0.wp.com/clearlegaltips.com/wp-content/
uploads/2026/11/michigan-small-claims-court-06-steps.jpg?resize=1200%2C630&ssl=1)

 1. **Check the deadline.** A breach of contract that no other subsection covers has
    a 6-year period (MCL 600.5807(9)). Other claims have other deadlines.
 2. **Pick the county.** File with the district court in the county where the claim
    happened or where the defendant is established, resides or is employed (DC 84info).
 3. **Fill out the Small Claims Affidavit (DC 84).** With more than one plaintiff or
    defendant, tick the box on the form and attach the Addendum (DC 84a). It can’t 
    be used without DC 84. Describe the claim in plain, concise language and include
    the date or dates it arose (MCR 4.302(A)). Then give your full and correct name,
    your type (individual, sole proprietorship, partnership or corporation) and any
    assumed or business name (MCL 600.8402(2)).
 4. **Sign in front of a notary or deputy clerk.** Hold off signing until you are in
    front of one. They check your ID and have you swear or affirm that the statements
    are true (DC 84info; DC 84).
 5. **File it.** Bring one copy for each defendant to be served (MCL 600.8402(1)). 
    The court may or may not allow filing in person, by mail or through MiFile, so 
    contact the court (DC 84info). Pay the fee or file the Fee Waiver Request.
 6. **Wait for the notice.** The clerk sets a hearing date and arranges delivery of
    your affidavit, the notice of hearing and an overview to the defendant (DC 84info).
    The appearance date is not less than 15 nor more than 45 days after the date of
    the notice (MCL 600.8406(1)).

Service, meaning delivery of the papers, is made by certified mail with a return
receipt that only the addressee signs, or by personal service. The court may order
another method on a showing (MCL 600.8405). The clerk handles certified mail, and
the mailing receipt plus the signed return card is the proof. Evening and Saturday
hours may be available if you submit a written request and show the need (DC 84info;
MCL 600.8404(2)).

### A note on Michigan’s new forms

SCAO redesigned the small claims forms in 2026. The 1/24 version of DC 84 may be
used until December 31, 2026, and the 6/26 version may be used immediately and must
be used beginning January 1, 2027 (SCAO notice, June 30, 2026). The new DC 84 is
a mandatory-use form. Form numbers and names can change again, so download the current
version from the court.

## If You Are Sued in Michigan Small Claims Court

![Card: if you are sued in Michigan small claims court, bring papers and witnesses,
ask for installments, counterclaims](https://i0.wp.com/clearlegaltips.com/wp-content/
uploads/2026/11/michigan-small-claims-court-07-sued.jpg?resize=1200%2C630&ssl=1)

The clerk has a copy of the affidavit served on you, along with a notice directing
you to appear and answer (MCL 600.8404(1)). The notice tells you to bring all books,
papers and witnesses you need to establish a claim or defense. It also warns that
if you don’t appear, the judge may enter a judgment against you for up to the limit
or the amount claimed, whichever is less, plus costs. DC 84info says the court may
grant the claim up to $7,000 plus court costs. MCR 4.304(B)(1) provides for a default
if the claim is for a fixed amount, and for ex parte proofs, where the plaintiff
presents evidence without you, if it is not.

The paperwork matters too. If you were not personally served or did not sign the
certified mail receipt at least 7 days before the appearance date, the court has
no jurisdiction to enter judgment unless you appear and do not request a continuance,
which is a delay (MCL 600.8406(2)). If the notice reached you less than 7 days before
and you don’t appear, the clerk issues a further notice at no cost if the plaintiff
asks (MCR 4.303(C)).

![Card: a defendant who does not appear in Michigan small claims court risks a judgment
up to $7,000 plus costs](https://i0.wp.com/clearlegaltips.com/wp-content/uploads/
2026/11/michigan-small-claims-court-08-noshow.jpg?resize=1200%2C630&ssl=1)

You may not dispute the debt but need time. Even without a legal defense, a defendant
may appear to request installment payments under MCL 600.8410, and DC 84info says
you can ask for a payment plan at the hearing. The parties may also settle in writing,
signed by both, and the judge reviews the deal and either enters it as the judgment
or requires a full hearing (MCL 600.8410(1)). If the dispute settles before or at
the hearing, the defendant may be charged the plaintiff’s costs of starting the 
case (MCL 600.8404(1)(d)).

### If you have a claim against the plaintiff

A counterclaim is your own claim against the person who sued you. If you file a 
verified answer, one you swear is true, with a counterclaim, the court may grant
a continuance on request of either party (MCL 600.8422). If your claim is over the
small claims limit, MCL 600.8423 offers another route. You start an action in a 
court that can hear it, file an affidavit with the small claims clerk, attach a 
copy of the complaint, pay a $1.00 transmittal fee and mail copies to the plaintiff.
The judge shall order the small claims case transferred, and the actions are tried
together in the other court.

## Moving Your Case Out of Small Claims: Removal

![Card: removal from Michigan small claims, ask for a district judge or move to 
the general civil division before trial](https://i0.wp.com/clearlegaltips.com/wp-
content/uploads/2026/11/michigan-small-claims-court-09-removal.jpg?resize=1200%2C630&
ssl=1)

Before a trial begins, either the plaintiff or the defendant may demand that the
trial be conducted before a district court judge and not a magistrate, or may remove
the case from the small claims division to the general civil division of the district
court (MCL 600.8408(4)). Starting the trial in small claims means both sides waive
the rights in MCL 600.8412. Act before that. Michigan makes sure you hear about 
it. The affidavit must tell both parties, in boldface, about the right to removal
before trial and the rights waived by staying (MCL 600.8402(3)). The judge or magistrate
must tell them again before trial (MCL 600.8411(1)).

Removal works like this:

 * **In writing.** Complete form DC 86, the removal request. The plaintiff, the 
   defendant or a representative may complete it. Under MCR 4.306(A), a signed written
   demand is filed with the clerk at or before the time set for the hearing (DC 
   84info says to return it before the hearing).
 * **In person.** Say so to the judge or magistrate before the hearing begins (DC
   84info; MCR 4.306(A)).
 * **Then the court acts.** The court directs removal by a written order (DC 86o,
   which the court completes). The defendant answers within 14 days, the demanding
   party serves the order, and there is no fee (MCR 4.306(B)).

![Card: after removal from Michigan small claims, parties may hire attorneys, have
a jury trial and appeal](https://i0.wp.com/clearlegaltips.com/wp-content/uploads/
2026/11/michigan-small-claims-court-10-after-removal.jpg?resize=1200%2C630&ssl=1)

After removal, parties may hire attorneys, have a jury trial and appeal decisions(
DC 84info). After removal, either party may amend to increase the amount claimed
by paying any filing-fee difference (MCL 600.8425(2)).

## What a Michigan Small Claims Court Hearing Looks Like

![Card: Michigan small claims hearing, witnesses take an oath, the trial is informal,
no jury, a judge or magistrate hears it](https://i0.wp.com/clearlegaltips.com/wp-
content/uploads/2026/11/michigan-small-claims-court-11-hearing.jpg?resize=1200%2C630&
ssl=1)

Witnesses are sworn. The judge runs the trial informally and is not bound by rules
of practice, procedure, pleading or evidence, except privilege. There is no jury
and no verbatim record (MCL 600.8411(2)). Michigan Legal Help says the plaintiff
presents first and then the defendant.

Bring everything that proves or disproves the claim. DC 84info lists papers, witnesses,
photos, emails and books.

![Card: who hears a Michigan small claims case, a district judge or an attorney 
magistrate, and the 7-day magistrate appeal](https://i0.wp.com/clearlegaltips.com/
wp-content/uploads/2026/11/michigan-small-claims-court-12-who-hears.jpg?resize=1200%
2C630&ssl=1)

Your case may be assigned to a magistrate, which DC 84info describes as an attorney
appointed to hear cases. MCL 600.8427 says a hearing may be conducted by a district
judge or by a magistrate who is an attorney licensed to practice in Michigan and
authorized by the chief judge under MCL 600.8514. That magistrate may administer
oaths, examine witnesses, make findings and recommend a judgment.

If the plaintiff fails to appear, the claim may be dismissed, tried on the merits
for the defendant or adjourned (MCR 4.304(B)(2)-(3)).

Michigan Legal Help says the judge or magistrate could tell the parties the decision
at the end of the hearing or wait to decide. The judgment is entered with the court’s
findings and has to contain the payment and stay provisions of MCL 600.8410(2) (
MCR 4.305(A)). A copy is given, delivered or mailed to each party immediately (MCL
600.8410(6)). Small claims judgments are conclusive upon the plaintiff and the defendant(
MCL 600.8413).

## If You Disagree With the Decision: Appeals

![Card: Michigan small claims appeal, 7 days after a magistrate decision, no further
appeal after a judge](https://i0.wp.com/clearlegaltips.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/
11/michigan-small-claims-court-13-appeals.jpg?resize=1200%2C630&ssl=1)

  |  If your case was heard by |  Can you appeal? |  
   |  A district court judge |  No. Further appeal from the judgment of the district court judge shall not be available to either party (MCL 600.8427). DC 84info says both parties give up the right to appeal the judge’s decision. |  
 |  A magistrate |  Yes. Either party may take an appeal de novo as of right to the small claims division of the district court (MCL 600.8427). “De novo” means a fresh hearing before a judge. |

MCL 600.8427 says the appeal “shall be taken within 7 days after the entry of the
decision of the magistrate.” Sources describe the starting point differently. MCL
600.8514 says a recommended judgment becomes final as of the date recommended unless
an appeal is taken within 7 days after it was recommended. The new DC 84 says within
7 days of the date the judgment is signed. Michigan Legal Help says within seven
days of judgment. Count from the day of the decision and file as early as you can.
If you are not sure when your clock started, ask the clerk.

### Changing or setting aside a judgment

MCR 4.305(B) says a small claims judgment may be modified or vacated, meaning cancelled,
in the same way as other civil judgments, except that an appeal may not be taken.
We did not review the grounds and procedure, so ask the clerk what motion the court
expects and how soon to file it.

## Collecting a Michigan Small Claims Judgment

![Card: collecting a Michigan small claims judgment, a 30-day payment or disclosure
deadline in some cases, garnishment after 21 days](https://i0.wp.com/clearlegaltips.
com/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/michigan-small-claims-court-14-collect.jpg?resize
=1200%2C630&ssl=1)

Winning a judgment doesn’t put money in your account. The judge orders payment in
a lump sum or in installments and provides a stay of further proceedings to collect
while the defendant complies (MCL 600.8410(2)). The judgment includes a warning 
that nonpayment may lead to execution against the defendant’s property and an examination
of assets (MCL 600.8410(4)). If the defendant is absent, or does not pay in full
at once, the judge shall order payment in full or a written disclosure of the defendant’s
employer and accounts within 30 days after entry (MCL 600.8410(5)).

Some terms. A writ is a court order. Execution means the court acts against a debtor’s
property to satisfy the judgment. Garnishment is a court order telling a third party,
such as an employer or bank, to hold or hand over the debtor’s money. Timing matters
here. Nothing can be attached or garnished before judgment (MCL 600.8409(1)). After
judgment, a writ of garnishment can’t be issued until the 21 days after entry have
passed (MCR 4.305(C)). SCAO prepares plain-English instruction sheets on asking 
for each (MCL 600.8409(2)).

![Card: Michigan garnishment timing, none before judgment and no writ until 21 days
after entry, with the MC 12, MC 13 and MC 52 forms](https://i0.wp.com/clearlegaltips.
com/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/michigan-small-claims-court-15-garnishment.jpg?resize
=1200%2C630&ssl=1)

  |  Tool |  What it does (DC 85info) |  Form |  
   |  Periodic garnishment |  Continues until the judgment, interest and costs are paid in full or the court orders otherwise |  MC 12 |  
 |  Nonperiodic garnishment |  Takes money one time from a bank or other account |  MC 13 |  
 |  Income tax refund garnishment |  Takes money one time from the debtor’s state tax refund |  MC 52 |  
 |  Debtor’s examination |  A subpoena for the debtor to appear or produce documents |  MC 11 |  
 |  Seizure of property |  A sheriff or court officer handles seizure and sale |  MC 19 |

The garnishee is typically the debtor’s bank, employer or the Michigan Department
of Treasury. The creditor covers disclosure and service fees (DC 85info). Unless
the court says otherwise, a periodic garnishment keeps going until the withheld 
amount equals the unpaid judgment, interest and costs, or the plaintiff files a 
notice (MCR 3.101(B)(1)(a); MCL 600.4012(1)). Once you are paid in full, file a 
Certificate of Satisfied Judgment (MC 17). A debtor can ask for an Order of Satisfaction
if the creditor does not (DC 85info). SCAO plans to redesign the garnishment forms,
so download the current versions.

### Interest on a Michigan judgment

![Card: Michigan judgment interest, 1 percentage point plus the Treasury rate, 3.959
percent for July 1, 2026](https://i0.wp.com/clearlegaltips.com/wp-content/uploads/
2026/11/michigan-small-claims-court-16-interest.jpg?resize=1200%2C630&ssl=1)

  |  Piece |  Rule (MCL 600.6013) |  
   |  Starts from |  The date the complaint was filed, calculated at six-month intervals (subsection 8) |  
 |  Rate |  1% plus the average auction rate on 5-year Treasury notes, certified by the state treasurer, compounded annually (subsection 8) |  
 |  Applies to |  The entire money judgment, including attorney fees and other costs (subsection 8) |  
 |  Written debt with a stated rate |  The rate in the instrument, if it was legal when executed, up to 13% a year (subsection 7) |

The Michigan Treasury page, dated July 9, 2026, shows 3.959% for the six months 
from July 1, 2026. As a worked example, adding the statute’s 1 point to 3.959% gives
4.959%. That is our own arithmetic, not a figure Treasury publishes. The subsection
number on the Treasury page differs from the statute’s, so rely on the statute. 
For the current six-month rate, check the Treasury page. The next reset is January
1, 2027.

### How long a small claims judgment lasts

Michigan treats a district court judgment as one from a court of record, except 
a judgment entered in the small claims division (MCL 600.5809(3)). A small claims
judgment therefore gets the 6-year period that applies to a court not of record,
while most district court judgments get 10 years. Within the period, you can bring
an action on the judgment for a new judgment (MCL 600.5809(3)).

## Common Michigan Small Claims Court Cases

![Card: Michigan security deposits, 30 days for the landlord's itemized notice, 
4 days for the tenant's address, 45 days to sue or return the balance](https://i0.
wp.com/clearlegaltips.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/michigan-small-claims-court-
17-cases.jpg?resize=1200%2C630&ssl=1)

Security deposits come up often, and Michigan’s clocks are short:

  |  Who |  Deadline |  What the statute says |  
   |  Landlord |  30 days after occupancy ends |  Mail an itemized notice of damages (MCL 554.609(1)). Miss it, and the landlord is treated as agreeing that no damages are due and must return the full deposit immediately (MCL 554.610). |  
 |  Tenant |  4 days after move-out |  Give a forwarding address in writing. A missed address relieves the landlord of the notice of damages but does not prejudice the tenant’s later claim (MCL 554.611). |  
 |  Tenant |  7 days after receiving the notice |  Respond by ordinary mail, saying in detail whether you agree or disagree with each charge. The mailing date counts as the response date (MCL 554.612; MCL 554.609(4)). |  
 |  Landlord |  45 days after occupancy ends |  Sue for the damages claimed or return the balance. Not complying fully waives all claimed damages and makes the landlord liable for double the deposit retained (MCL 554.613). |

A landlord also cannot keep any part of the deposit for claimed damages without 
a money judgment for the disputed amount, or proof that the tenant could not be 
served. The exceptions: the tenant gave no forwarding address, the tenant did not
respond to the notice as required, the parties agreed in writing on the balance,
or the claim is based entirely on unpaid rent (MCL 554.613(1)). As of September 
21, 2026 (2026 PA 102), MCL 554.609 also lets a landlord pay the refund by direct
deposit or electronic transfer rather than a check, within 10 days after mailing
the notice.

## Common Mistakes in Michigan Small Claims Court

![Card: mistakes in Michigan small claims court, starting the trial before asking
for removal, missing the 7-day appeal, no evidence](https://i0.wp.com/clearlegaltips.
com/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/michigan-small-claims-court-18-mistakes.jpg?resize
=1200%2C630&ssl=1)

  |  Mistake |  Why it matters |  
   |  Letting the trial start before you ask for a judge or removal |  Starting the trial waives the rights in MCL 600.8412 (MCL 600.8408(4)). |  
 |  Filing in the wrong county |  The court wants the county where the claim happened or where the defendant is established, lives or works (DC 84info). |  
 |  Waiting too long to appeal a magistrate’s decision |  The statute gives 7 days (MCL 600.8427). |  
 |  Skipping your evidence |  Both sides are told to bring all books, papers and witnesses (MCL 600.8404(1)). |  
 |  Expecting a garnishment right away |  No garnishment before judgment, and a writ waits 21 days (MCL 600.8409(1); MCR 4.305(C)). |

## How Michigan Small Claims Court Compares With Other States

![Card: Michigan's $7,000 small claims limit compared with 50 other jurisdictions,
32 higher, 2 equal, 16 lower](https://i0.wp.com/clearlegaltips.com/wp-content/uploads/
2026/11/michigan-small-claims-court-19-compare.jpg?resize=1200%2C630&ssl=1)

Michigan’s $7,000 limit is below most states: of the other 50 jurisdictions in our
data, 32 have a higher limit, 2 (Massachusetts and Montana) match it and 16 have
a lower one. Ohio’s is $6,000, while Indiana and Wisconsin are at $10,000. Our [small claims limits and fees by state](https://clearlegaltips.com/small-claims-court-filing-limits-and-fees/)
table has the full list, and our [Ohio small claims court guide](https://clearlegaltips.com/ohio-small-claims-court/)
covers the neighbor to the south.

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is the small claims limit in Michigan?

$7,000 since January 1, 2024, for money claims only (MCL 600.8401).

### How much does it cost to file in Michigan small claims court?

$30 for claims up to $600, $50 for claims over $600 up to $1,750 and $70 above that,
including the $5 electronic filing fee (DC 84info). Service costs can add to it.

### Do I need a lawyer for Michigan small claims court?

Plan to appear without one. MCL 600.8408(1) bars an attorney from taking part except
on the attorney’s own behalf. After removal, parties may hire attorneys (DC 84info).

### Can a collection agency or assignee file in Michigan small claims court?

A claim by an assignee or third party beneficiary shall not be filed or prosecuted
in the division (MCL 600.8407(1)), and a collection agency or its agent or employee
cannot take part (MCL 600.8408(1)).

### Can I appeal a small claims decision in Michigan?

Only if a magistrate heard it, within 7 days after the entry of the magistrate’s
decision (MCL 600.8427). A district judge’s decision is final.

### How long do I have to file a small claim in Michigan?

For a breach of contract that no other subsection covers, 6 years (MCL 600.5807(
9)). Other claims can differ.

### How fast must a Michigan landlord return a security deposit?

The landlord must mail an itemized notice of damages within 30 days after occupancy
ends (MCL 554.609(1)) and has 45 days to sue or return the balance (MCL 554.613(
1)).

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### Related Articles

 * [Small Claims Court Limits & Fees by State (2026)](https://clearlegaltips.com/small-claims-court-filing-limits-and-fees/)
 * [Ohio Small Claims Court (2026)](https://clearlegaltips.com/ohio-small-claims-court/)
 * [Demand Letter for Payment](https://clearlegaltips.com/demand-letter-for-payment/)
 * [How to Collect Money Owed](https://clearlegaltips.com/how-to-collect-money-owed/)
 * [Statute of Limitations on Debt by State](https://clearlegaltips.com/statute-of-limitations-on-debt-by-state/)
 * [Security Deposit Demand Letter Template](https://clearlegaltips.com/security-deposit-demand-letter-template-get-deposit-back-2026/)

### Sources & References

 * [MCL 445.251](https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-445-251)
 * [MCL 554.609](https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-554-609)
 * [MCL 554.611](https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-554-611)
 * [MCL 554.613](https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-554-613)
 * [MCL 600.1986](https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-600-1986)
 * [MCL 600.2952](https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-600-2952)
 * [MCL 600.4012](https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-600-4012)
 * [MCL 600.5807](https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-600-5807)
 * [MCL 600.5809](https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-600-5809)
 * [MCL 600.6013](https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-600-6013)
 * [MCL 600.8401](https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-600-8401)
 * [MCL 600.8402](https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-600-8402)
 * [MCL 600.8404](https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-600-8404)
 * [MCL 600.8405](https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-600-8405)
 * [MCL 600.8406](https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-600-8406)
 * [MCL 600.8407](https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-600-8407)
 * [MCL 600.8408](https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-600-8408)
 * [MCL 600.8409](https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-600-8409)
 * [MCL 600.8410](https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-600-8410)
 * [MCL 600.8411](https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-600-8411)
 * [MCL 600.8412](https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-600-8412)
 * [MCL 600.8413](https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-600-8413)
 * [MCL 600.8420](https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-600-8420)
 * [MCL 600.8421](https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-600-8421)
 * [MCL 600.8422](https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-600-8422)
 * [MCL 600.8423](https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-600-8423)
 * [MCL 600.8424](https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-600-8424)
 * [MCL 600.8425](https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-600-8425)
 * [MCL 600.8426](https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-600-8426)
 * [MCL 600.8427](https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-600-8427)
 * [MCL 600.8514](https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-600-8514)
 * [SCAO district court fee table](https://www.courts.michigan.gov/4986e9/siteassets/court-administration/resources/dfee.pdf)
 * [MCR 4.301 to 4.306](https://www.courts.michigan.gov/siteassets/rules-instructions-administrative-orders/michigan-court-rules/michigan-court-rules-responsive-html5.zip/Michigan_Court_Rules/Court_Rules_Chapter_4/Court_Rules_Chapter_4.htm)
 * [MCR 2.002 and 2.621](https://www.courts.michigan.gov/siteassets/rules-instructions-administrative-orders/michigan-court-rules/michigan-court-rules-responsive-html5.zip/Michigan_Court_Rules/Court_Rules_Chapter_2/Court_Rules_Chapter_2.htm)
 * [MCR 3.101](https://www.courts.michigan.gov/siteassets/rules-instructions-administrative-orders/michigan-court-rules/michigan-court-rules-responsive-html5.zip/Michigan_Court_Rules/Court_Rules_Chapter_3/Court_Rules_Chapter_3.htm)
 * [Michigan Treasury, interest on money judgments](https://www.michigan.gov/taxes/interest-rates-for-money-judgments)
 * [Michigan Legal Help, small claims hearing](https://michiganlegalhelp.org/node/1631)
 * [Michigan Legal Help, small claims overview](https://michiganlegalhelp.org/node/1891)
 * [2026 PA 102](https://www.legislature.mi.gov/documents/2025-2026/publicact/pdf/2026-PA-0102.pdf)
 * [SCAO DC 84 and DC 84n](https://www.courts.michigan.gov/49ea63/siteassets/forms/scao-approved/dc84_84n.pdf)
 * [SCAO DC 84a](https://www.courts.michigan.gov/siteassets/forms/scao-approved/dc84a.pdf)
 * [SCAO DC 84info](https://www.courts.michigan.gov/49f3ce/siteassets/forms/scao-approved/dc84info.pdf)
 * [SCAO DC 85info](https://www.courts.michigan.gov/49f4fd/siteassets/forms/scao-approved/dc85info.pdf)
 * [SCAO DC 86](https://www.courts.michigan.gov/siteassets/forms/scao-approved/dc86.pdf)
 * [SCAO DC 86o](https://www.courts.michigan.gov/49f582/siteassets/forms/scao-approved/dc86o.pdf)
 * [SCAO small claims forms notice (June 30, 2026)](https://www.courts.michigan.gov/49f754/siteassets/forms/scao-approved/recent-revisions/eoc_smallclaims.pdf)

_Fact-checked: November 2026_

**Legal Disclaimer:** This article is general information, not legal advice. ClearLegalTips
is not a law firm and does not provide legal representation. Laws vary by state 
and change over time. For guidance on your specific situation, consult a licensed
attorney in your jurisdiction.

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