Legal rules differ a lot from state to state. Here are the numbers that matter most for everyday problems in New York, with the statutes behind them.
New York at a glance
| Topic | New York | Source or note |
|---|---|---|
| Small claims limit | $10,000 | Largest claim most individuals can bring in small claims court. |
| Personal injury deadline | 3 years | N.Y. Civ. Prac. Laws & Rules § 214 |
| Written contract deadline | 6 years | Statute of limitations for breach of a written contract. |
| Oral contract deadline | 6 years | Statute of limitations for breach of an oral agreement. |
| Security deposit return | 14 days | § 7-108(1-a)(e) |
How we built this table. Figures come from published 50-state surveys of state statutes and court rules, retrieved 2026-10-20. A number is shown only when at least two surveys agree; otherwise we leave it out. Laws change, so confirm with the statute cited or your state court before you rely on a figure. This is general information, not legal advice.
Small claims court in New York
New York lets individuals bring claims of up to $10,000 in small claims court. That is the same as the national middle of about $10,000.
- Filing fee: $10 to $20. Fees vary by county, and fee waivers exist for people with low income.
- Lawyers: Allowed, not required.
- Appeals: Narrow grounds only, 30 days (35 if mailed); none from a default or voluntary arbitration.
Learn the steps in our guide to how small claims court works.
Deadlines to file a lawsuit in New York
The deadline to file a personal injury lawsuit in New York is generally 3 years, which is longer than the most common period of 2 years across the country (N.Y. Civ. Prac. Laws & Rules § 214). For a written contract the period is 6 years and for an oral contract 6 years.
Worth knowing: Government defendants require notice of claim within 90 days.
Deadlines can start later or pause in some situations, and claims against government bodies often have much shorter notice periods. See what a statute of limitations is and what to do after a car accident.
Security deposits in New York
Landlords in New York must return a tenant's security deposit within about 14 days (14 days after move-out; § 7-108(1-a)(e)). Missing the deadline can cost a landlord the right to keep deductions, and some states add penalties.
See security deposit rules and how evictions work.
Where to get legal help in New York
- Legal Services Corporation: find a legal aid office, a directory of free civil legal help for people with low incomes.
- LawHelp.org, free legal information and referrals, where you can choose New York.
- National Center for State Courts directory of state court websites, many with self-help forms.
Not sure whether you need an attorney? Read Do I need a lawyer? and how to find free or low-cost legal help.
Browse other states: New Mexico and North Carolina. Or see the full 50-state comparison.