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File My Small Claims

Form SC-104B: What Is "Proof of Service"?

Explains the service rules. Here is what the form does, when you file it, and the mistakes that cost people their hearing date.

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What SC-104B is for

An information sheet the court publishes alongside SC-104. It explains the permitted methods of service, who may serve, and the deadlines. It is not filed — it is there so you do not get service wrong, which is the most common reason a small claims case gets delayed or thrown out.

Things to get right

  • Not a form you file — read it before you arrange service.
  • Covers the different deadlines for serving inside and outside the county.

This form is free

SC-104B 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

Either side, depending on the situation.

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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