Filing a Case

What deadlines apply to a Massachusetts small claims case, by claim type, including contracts, goods sales, tort, and Chapter 93A consumer claims.

Massachusetts small claims cases go to the District Court Department or the Boston Municipal Court Department. M.G.L. c. 218 § 21 gives the plaintiff a choice among the judicial district where the plaintiff lives, the plaintiff’s workplace, or the defendant’s residence or place of business, with extra options for residential landlord–tenant claims.

Massachusetts small claims entry fees are tiered from $40 to $150 based on the amount of the claim, including the statutory surcharge added at filing. Plaintiffs who cannot afford the fee can apply for waiver through an Affidavit of Indigency.

Massachusetts small claims provides a simplified procedure for money disputes up to $7,000 in District Court or Boston Municipal Court. This article walks through eligibility, court selection, completing the Statement of Small Claim, paying the fee, and how service of the claim works.

Massachusetts small claims sits inside the District Court and Boston Municipal Court for money disputes up to $7,000, with carve-outs for motor vehicle property damage and municipal tax cases. This reference covers vocabulary, the dollar cap, hearing procedure, and appeal rights.