Small Claims Demand Letter Generator

Generate a final demand letter before filing in small claims court.

Letter type Appraisal applies to claims under your own policy, when you and the insurer agree the loss is covered but disagree on the amount. Most insurance departments also take complaints through an online form; the letter text works there too.

Your information

Your full name

Your phone and/or email

Your mailing address

Claim details

Insurance company's name and address

Claim number

Adjuster name (optional)

At-fault driver name

Date of accident

Location of accident

Briefly describe what happened and the damage (2-4 sentences)

Amount you are demanding (USD)

Response deadline (days)

Not legal, financial, or insurance advice. This tool gives a general, educational estimate only. Insurance laws, deadlines, and formulas vary by state, by policy, and by insurer, and they change over time. Verify anything important with your insurance policy, your state department of insurance, or a licensed attorney before relying on it. This generator produces a first draft based on what you enter. Review it carefully, attach your supporting documents, and consider legal review before sending a large or disputed claim.

Use this as your final written demand before filing in small claims court.

Before you file in small claims court

Check your state's small claims limit and the deadline to sue; both are on our state pages.
Sue the at-fault driver by name; the insurer usually defends and pays if it loses.
Keep proof this letter was received, because many judges expect a written demand first.

Example: how this letter could read

This is my final request before I file in [county] small claims court. I am asking for $3,850 for repairs and rental, as documented in my letter of [date], which has not been answered. If I have not received payment or a written offer by [date 14 days from now], I will file a claim against [at-fault driver] without further notice.

Made-up numbers; the generator fills in your own.

Already settled a claim? Share the first offer and what you finally got, anonymously, in 30 seconds. It helps us build the Lowball Index, which we publish once enough claims are in.

What to do next

Frequently asked questions

Who do I sue in small claims after a car accident?

Usually the at-fault driver (and the owner, if different), not their insurance company. Their insurer is normally notified and handles the defense.

How much does small claims court cost?

Filing fees are typically modest and depend on the state and amount claimed; you can usually add them to what you ask the court to award.

How should I send my demand letter?

Send it by email and by certified mail with return receipt requested, so you have proof of delivery and a timestamp for your deadline.