Your SC-104 is ready. What to do next
This is a free tool. We are not lawyers and this is not legal advice. You fill in and sign the form yourself.
- The server checks and signs
The server reads both pages, fixes anything wrong (you can change it here and download again), and signs item 6 by hand. The server signs under penalty of perjury. You don’t sign this form.
- Get it back from the server
The form (item 2) says the server gives or mails the completed form to the person who asked for service, in time to file it at least 5 days before the hearing. If a process server or the sheriff served the papers, they can file it with the clerk themselves (SC-104B).
- File it at least 5 days before the hearing
File the original and one copy with the small claims clerk. The court keeps the original and stamps the copy for you. Keep the stamped copy and bring it to court. Serve your small claims forms.
- If the papers were not served in time
The judge cannot hear the case unless the papers were served correctly. Talk to the small claims clerk. If some parties were served but not all, you may need to file SC-150, Request to Postpone Trial at least 10 days before the trial (SC-104B).
- Free help
Your county’s small claims advisor can help for free.
Service deadlines (from SC-104B)
| SC-100, personal service | At least 15 days before the trial (20 days if the person or business is outside the county) |
| SC-100, substituted service | Papers mailed at least 25 days before the trial (30 days if outside the county) |
| SC-120 (Defendant’s Claim) | At least 5 days before the trial; if you were served 10 days or less before the trial, at least 1 day before |
| Filing this Proof of Service | At least 5 days before the trial |
Sources: SC-104B, What Is “Proof of Service”? (Rev. January 1, 2026), California Courts Self-Help Guide: serve your forms and form SC-104 itself. If a deadline falls on a weekend or court holiday, count back to a day the court is open. Check with your court.