How to E-File a Small Claims Case in California

Not every California courthouse requires you to show up in person to file a small claims case. Several major counties now accept electronic filing through court-approved platforms, and for many filers it's the fastest way to get a hearing date.

Which Courts Accept E-Filing?

E-filing availability depends on the county. As of 2026, the major courts that accept online small claims filings include:

• Los Angeles County — file through the LA Superior Court's online portal
• Alameda County — electronic filing available through approved providers
• Orange County — online filing through the court's EFSP (Electronic Filing Service Provider)
• Sacramento County — small claims e-filing is available at the Carol Miller Justice Center
• San Bernardino County — online filing through approved vendors

Many smaller and rural counties still require in-person or mail filing. Check your county's Superior Court website or call the clerk's office to confirm what's available. The Judicial Council's court finder at courts.ca.gov can point you to the right place.

How E-Filing Works

The general process:

1. Create an account on the court-approved filing platform.
2. Fill out Form SC-100 (Plaintiff's Claim) — either on the platform itself or by uploading a completed PDF.
3. Attach supporting forms — Form SC-103 (Fictitious Business Name Declaration) if you're suing under a DBA, Form FW-001 (Fee Waiver Request) if applicable, or Form SC-100A if there are multiple plaintiffs or defendants.
4. Pay the filing fee online (credit card or debit).
5. Submit and receive an electronic confirmation.

The clerk reviews your submission, and if everything is in order, you'll get a stamped copy with your case number and hearing date. Processing time depends on the court and provider.

E-Filing Fees and the Fee Waiver Gap

You pay the same court filing fee as an in-person filer ($30, $50, or $75 depending on claim amount). An e-filing service provider may charge a separate service or convenience fee, and the amount and fee-waiver treatment depend on the court and provider. Check both before you submit.

If you have an approved court fee waiver (Form FW-001), check whether the e-filing provider also waives its fee. Sacramento permits small claims e-filing with a fee waiver application; fee-waiver holders should confirm any provider-specific charges before filing.

In-Person Filing Still Works

Bring your completed forms to the small claims clerk's window during business hours, or file by mail with a self-addressed stamped envelope for returned copies. The clerk reviews and accepts the filing before it is complete; processing times depend on the court.

Paper filing avoids e-filing provider fees, but it does not bypass clerk review. Court clerks can answer procedural questions, not give legal advice.

Important: Filing Confirmation Is Not Proof of Acceptance

Whether you file online or in person, your case isn't officially filed until the court clerk reviews, accepts, and stamps your documents. An e-filing platform's submission receipt or a postal tracking number showing delivery does not mean the clerk has accepted your case. Wait for the stamped copy with your case number before arranging service of process.

The California small claims filing guide covers every filing method — in person, by mail, and online — with step-by-step instructions and a deadline calendar based on your hearing date.

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