File Small Claims Court Online NJeCourts System Makes Filing Fast & Easy
File your small claims case online in New Jersey through the eCourts system. No trips to the courthouse, no waiting in lines - complete everything from your computer or phone.
Counties Offering Online Small Claims Filing
How to File Small Claims Online in NJ
Create Your eCourts Account
Visit njcourts.gov/ecourts and register for a free account. You'll need a valid email address and will create a secure password. The system will send a verification email to activate your account.
Select "File a New Case"
Once logged in, choose "Special Civil Part" then "Small Claims Section" for cases up to $5,000. Select the county where the defendant resides or where the dispute occurred.
Complete the DC-6 Form Online
The system will guide you through completing the complaint form electronically. Required information includes:
- Full legal names and addresses of all parties
- Clear description of your claim
- Specific amount of damages (up to $5,000)
- Date and location of incident or breach
Upload Supporting Documents
Scan and upload evidence supporting your claim:
Accepted Formats
PDF, JPG, PNG (max 25MB each)
Common Documents
Contracts, receipts, photos, emails
Pay Filing Fees Online
Submit payment securely through the eCourts system:
Accepted Payment Methods:
- • Credit Cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, AMEX)
- • Debit Cards with Visa/MC logo
- • Electronic Check (ACH transfer)
Note: A small convenience fee may apply for credit card payments
Select Service Method
Choose how the defendant will be notified of the lawsuit. The court will handle service based on your selection:
- Certified Mail: $10-15 (most common)
- Sheriff Service: $35-75 (for businesses or if mail fails)
- Process Server: Varies (you arrange separately)
Benefits of Filing Small Claims Online
File from Anywhere
No need to travel to the courthouse. File from home, work, or anywhere with internet access.
24/7 Availability
File your case anytime - nights, weekends, holidays. No waiting for court office hours.
Faster Processing
Electronic filing is processed immediately. Get your case number and court date sooner.
Secure & Trackable
Track your case status online. All documents are securely stored and accessible in your account.
Save Money
No travel costs, parking fees, or time off work. Same filing fees as in-person filing.
Error Checking
The system validates your entries and alerts you to any missing information before submission.
Technical Requirements for Online Filing
System Requirements
- • Modern web browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge)
- • Stable internet connection
- • Email account for notifications
- • PDF reader for viewing documents
Document Preparation
- • Scanner or phone camera for documents
- • Files in PDF, JPG, or PNG format
- • Each file under 25MB
- • Clear, readable scans or photos
Troubleshooting Online Filing Issues
Account Creation Problems
If you don't receive the verification email, check your spam folder. Contact eCourts support at 609-421-6100 if issues persist.
Document Upload Errors
Ensure files are under 25MB and in accepted formats (PDF, JPG, PNG). Try compressing large files or splitting multi-page documents.
Payment Processing Issues
Verify your billing address matches your card. Try a different browser or clear your cache if payment won't process.
County Not Available
If your county doesn't offer online filing yet, you'll need to file in person. Check regularly as more counties are being added.
Ready to File Your Small Claims Case Online?
Skip the courthouse lines and file your case online today. Our service helps you prepare everything you need for successful online filing.