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Form EJ-130: Writ of Execution

Tells the sheriff to collect. Here is what the form does, when you file it, and the mistakes that cost people their hearing date.

What EJ-130 is for

The instrument that converts a judgment into money. Issued by the court and delivered with instructions to the sheriff or a registered process server, it authorizes them to levy a bank account, garnish wages, or seize and sell property.

Things to get right

  • Issued by the court clerk, for a fee that is itself recoverable.
  • One writ per county where you want to enforce.
  • A writ has a limited life; you may need a fresh one.

This form is free

EJ-130 is a public document published by the Judicial Council of California. You can always download it from the court at no charge, and nobody should sell you the form itself. What we sell is the work around it — getting it filled correctly, knowing where it goes, and what happens next.

Who uses it

The winning party after judgment, trying to collect.

Where it fits in the process

  1. Before filing

    Ask for payment in writing. California expects it, and SC-100 asks you to confirm you did.

  2. Filing

    SC-100 opens the case and the clerk assigns a hearing date. FW-001 if the fee is unaffordable.

  3. Service

    SC-104 proves the defendant was notified. Without it the hearing does not go ahead.

  4. Hearing and judgment

    The court issues SC-130, the Notice of Entry of Judgment.

  5. Collecting

    SC-133, SC-134 and EJ-130 are how a judgment becomes money.

Start with a demand letter

Most California small claims cases settle before anyone sees a courtroom. The letter is free to write, and you can have us print and certified-mail it for $29.

Build my demand letter — free

No account needed to start. We are not a law firm and cannot give legal advice.

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