pettylawsuit
Official Court Forms
Updated February 2026

New York Small Claims Court FormsComplete Guide • All Forms • Document Checklist

5
Essential Forms
2
Required Forms
10+
Documents Needed
Checklist Included

Navigate New York's small claims court forms with confidence. Get every form filled out correctly, avoid common mistakes, and ensure your paperwork is complete before filing.

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Pre-Filing Checklist

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Essential Small Claims Forms

Statement of Claim

Form CIV-SC-50
Required

Primary form to initiate your small claims case

When Needed:

Filed at the beginning to start your case

This is the most important form. It initiates your case and must include:
  • • Defendant's correct legal name and address
  • • Exact amount claimed (up to $10,000 in NYC)
  • • Brief, clear description of your claim
  • • Date and location of incident/transaction

Affidavit of Service

Form CIV-SC-3A
Required

Proof that defendant was properly served with court papers

When Needed:

Filed after serving the defendant

Must be completed by the person who served the defendant. Cannot be filled out by the plaintiff. Service must be done within 120 days of filing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What forms do I need for NY small claims court?

At minimum, you need the Statement of Claim (CIV-SC-50) to file your case and an Affidavit of Service (CIV-SC-3A) after serving the defendant. Additional forms depend on your specific situation.

Where can I get New York small claims court forms?

Forms are available at any NYC courthouse, online at nycourts.gov, or through our professional service that prepares them correctly for you.

Can I file small claims forms online in NYC?

Currently, NYC requires in-person filing at the courthouse. However, you can prepare all forms online and bring them to court for filing.

How do I know if I filled out the forms correctly?

Court clerks can provide limited guidance, but cannot give legal advice. Common errors include wrong names, incorrect amounts, or missing information. Professional services ensure accuracy.

What happens if I make a mistake on the forms?

Minor errors can sometimes be corrected at filing. Major errors (wrong defendant name, incorrect venue) may require refiling and paying fees again.

Do I need different forms for each borough?

No, the same forms are used across all five NYC boroughs. However, you must file in the correct borough based on jurisdiction rules.

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Don't risk delays or dismissal due to form errors. Professional preparation ensures your paperwork is complete and accurate.

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Frequently asked questions

What forms do I need for NY small claims court?

Essential forms include Statement of Claim (CIV-SC-50) and Affidavit of Service (CIV-SC-3A). Additional forms like Information Subpoena or Request for Adjournment may be needed based on your case.

Where can I get New York small claims forms?

Forms are available at any NYC courthouse, online at nycourts.gov, or through professional filing services that prepare them for you.