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King County, Washington · Small claims court · Updated Oct 2026

Small claims court in King County, Washington

In King County, small claims cases up to $10,000 are heard by the King County District Court. Here is where it is, how to reach it and how to file.

$10,000Most you can sue for
Ask the clerkAsk this court's clerk — statewide fees range $35–$50
No lawyersUnless the judge allows it
1–3 monthsTypical wait to the hearing

Where to file in King County

King County District Court

Address: King County Courthouse, 516 Third Ave E-327, Seattle, WA 98104 · Map

Phone: 206-205-9200

Online filing: available, per the court

King County District Court has small claims filing locations in Seattle (Seattle), Shoreline (Kenmore, Lake Forest Park, north Seattle, Shoreline), Burien (south King County cities and unincorporated areas) and Redmond (eastside cities); all use 206-205-9200. You can also file online through the court's e-filing portal. Mediation is required before trial.

Court website (kingcounty.gov)

Court addresses, phones and hours change. Call the clerk before you go, and ask whether small claims are filed at this location.

Is this the right county?

Usually the District Court of the county where the defendant lives; for a business, also where it does business.

If the person or business you are suing is in another county, use that county's court instead. See all Washington counties.

How to file in King County

  1. Ask for payment in writing

    Washington doesn't require a demand letter, but sending one is a good idea and can lead to a settlement. Make a free demand letter.

  2. Fill out the claim form

    Notice of Small Claim (MISC 05.0100).

    Get the form (PDF)

  3. File it with the King County District Court and pay the fee

    $35 or $50, depending on whether your county adds a dispute resolution surcharge (King County $50, Spokane County $35). Service by a sheriff or process server costs extra. Fee waiver: Ask the clerk for a fee waiver; in King County, a Motion and Declaration for Waiver of Civil Fees.

  4. Have the papers served

    You can't serve the papers yourself. The sheriff, a process server or any adult not in the case delivers them, or you send them by certified mail with a receipt signed by the defendant.

  5. Go to the hearing

    The clerk sets the date when you file; in King County cases are heard 40 to 90 days after filing, and many counties hold mediation first. Bring receipts, photos, messages, the contract and your demand letter, with copies.

Want every detail? The full Washington filing guide covers each stage with a checklist.

Open the filing guide

Common questions

Where is small claims court in King County?

Small claims in King County are filed with the King County District Court, King County Courthouse, 516 Third Ave E-327, Seattle, WA 98104. Phone: 206-205-9200.

How much can I sue for in King County small claims court?

Up to $10,000. A person can sue for up to $10,000; businesses and other non-individuals for up to $5,000. Small claims handles money claims only and can't order someone to return property or do work.

How much does it cost to file in King County?

$35 or $50, depending on whether your county adds a dispute resolution surcharge (King County $50, Spokane County $35). Service by a sheriff or process server costs extra. Fee waiver: Ask the clerk for a fee waiver; in King County, a Motion and Declaration for Waiver of Civil Fees.

Can I file a small claim online in King County?

Yes. The court says online filing is available for small claims. Check the court website for the e-filing system and any fees.

Other Washington counties