California · Standard edition

California Demand Letter Template

Create a California demand letter online to ask for payment or action before going to court. The Standard letter covers the background and amount owed, the specific demand and payment instructions, a response deadline, lawful next steps, California small claims and pre-suit notice rules, preservation of evidence, and a reservation of rights.

Start your California Demand Letter

California rules built into this template

  • Small claims: California small claims court hears claims up to $12,500 for an individual and $6,250 for a business or other entity.
  • California rules: For a consumer claim under the Consumer Legal Remedies Act, the consumer must send the business a written notice of the violation, by certified or registered mail, return receipt requested, at least 30 days before suing for damages (Cal. Civ. Code § 1782). A creditor collecting its own consumer debt must follow the Rosenthal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (Cal. Civ. Code § 1788 et seq.).
  • Tone: a demand letter should not threaten criminal prosecution or any action the sender does not intend to take.

What the Demand Letter includes

  1. Background
  2. Demand
  3. Deadline to Respond
  4. If You Do Not Respond
  5. State Law
  6. Preservation of Evidence
  7. Reservation of Rights
  8. Governing Law

Frequently asked questions

What is the small claims limit in California?
California small claims court hears claims up to $12,500 for an individual and $6,250 for a business or other entity. Limits can change, so confirm with the court before filing.
Do I have to send a demand letter before suing?
Often it is not required, but it is usually a good first step and can support a claim for fees or interest. Some laws, such as certain state consumer protection statutes, require a written demand a set number of days before a lawsuit.
What is the difference between the Standard and Professional Demand Letter?
The Standard edition is a complete, state-aware Demand Letter for common situations. The Professional edition adds longer clause coverage, schedules, and optional modules for more complex matters. You can preview either edition free before you pay.

Demand Letter templates for other states

DraftMyDocu provides self-help document templates only. We are not a law firm and do not provide legal advice.

Start your California Demand Letter