Small claims court in Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania
In Philadelphia County, small claims cases up to $12,000 are heard by the Philadelphia Municipal Court, Civil Division (Small Claims). Here is where it is, how to reach it and how to file.
Where to file in Philadelphia County
Philadelphia Municipal Court, Civil Division (Small Claims)
Address: 1339 Chestnut Street, 10th Floor, Room 1000, Philadelphia, PA 19107 · Map
Phone: 215-686-2910
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?
Outside Philadelphia, file at the Magisterial District Court where the defendant lives or does business, where the problem happened, or where the contract was made; the pacourts.us locator finds the office. In Philadelphia, file in person at Municipal Court, 1339 Chestnut St, 10th floor.
If the person or business you are suing is in another county, use that county's court instead. See all Pennsylvania counties.
How to file in Philadelphia County
Ask for payment in writing
Pennsylvania doesn't require a demand letter, but one often settles the case and is good evidence. Make a free demand letter.
Fill in the claim (AOPC 308A)
Civil Complaint (Statement of Claim in Philadelphia) Get the form.
File it with the Philadelphia Municipal Court, Civil Division (Small Claims) and pay the fee
Fees depend on the amount and the county. A typical 2026 schedule outside Philadelphia: about $125 for claims up to $500, $148 up to $2,000, $171 up to $4,000, and $228 up to $12,000, including surcharges and certified mail. Constable service costs about $60 more. In Philadelphia, about $95 up to $2,000 and $117 above that, including service at one Philadelphia address. Fee waiver: Petition to Proceed In Forma Pauperis.
Have the papers served
The court handles service; you choose and pay for it: certified mail sent by the court, or delivery by a sheriff or constable.
Go to the hearing
The hearing is set 12 to 60 days after you file. Bring receipts, photos, messages, the contract and your demand letter, with copies.
Want every detail? The full Pennsylvania filing guide covers each stage with a checklist.
Open the filing guideCommon questions
Where is small claims court in Philadelphia County?
Small claims in Philadelphia County are filed with the Philadelphia Municipal Court, Civil Division (Small Claims), 1339 Chestnut Street, 10th Floor, Room 1000, Philadelphia, PA 19107. Phone: 215-686-2910.
How much can I sue for in Philadelphia County small claims court?
Up to $12,000. The limit is $12,000, not counting interest and costs, in both Magisterial District Courts and Philadelphia Municipal Court. These courts only award money. Larger claims go to the Court of Common Pleas.
How much does it cost to file in Philadelphia County?
Fees depend on the amount and the county. A typical 2026 schedule outside Philadelphia: about $125 for claims up to $500, $148 up to $2,000, $171 up to $4,000, and $228 up to $12,000, including surcharges and certified mail. Constable service costs about $60 more. In Philadelphia, about $95 up to $2,000 and $117 above that, including service at one Philadelphia address. Fee waiver: Petition to Proceed In Forma Pauperis.