Is it worth suing for under $500? Yes - and here's why most people don't realize how easy it is. Small claims court is designed for exactly these cases. Filing fees start at just $30, no lawyer is needed, and most cases take only 2-3 hours of your time. You can sue for any amount - there's no minimum. Common under-$500 cases include security deposit disputes, restaurant overcharges, unreturned property, small loans, service refunds, and minor property damage. The success rate for small claims under $500 is approximately 85% because amounts are easily proven with receipts, bank statements, and text messages. If you win, the court typically orders the defendant to reimburse your filing fees too. Most states don't even allow lawyers in small claims court - it's designed for regular people representing themselves. A demand letter alone resolves many disputes before you ever step into a courthouse. PettyLawsuit generates professional demand letters and court forms in 5 minutes for just $29.