NOT LEGAL OR FINANCIAL ADVICE
This content is for educational purposes only. Laws change frequently and vary by circumstance. Always consult a licensed attorney in your state before taking any legal action. We are not responsible for any decisions or actions taken based on this information.
Indiana Freelance Invoice Laws
General information about collecting unpaid invoices in Indiana
Last Updated: 2025-01-01 • Always verify with a Indiana attorney
Late Fee Limit
No statutory limit for B2B contracts
Interest Rate
6-10% per annum (pre-judgment); 8% post-judgment
Small Claims Limit
$10,000
Statute of Limitations
6 years for written contracts, 6 years for oral
Additional Context
Late Fees: Late fees must be reasonable and specified in the contract. Indiana courts enforce agreed-upon commercial provisions.
Interest: Pre-judgment interest ranges from 6-10% depending on circumstances. Post-judgment interest is 8% unless contract specifies lower.
Small Claims: Small claims courts handle disputes up to $10,000. Marion County (Indianapolis) has its own small claims court. Filing fees around $40-$85.
General Best Practices
These are general suggestions, not legal advice. Consult an attorney for your specific situation.
- ✓ Use written contracts with clear payment terms
- ✓ Include late fee and interest provisions in agreements
- ✓ Send itemized invoices promptly
- ✓ Document all scope changes and client approvals
- ✓ File in small claims court for amounts up to $10,000
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ✗ Waiting beyond 6 years to pursue collection
- ✗ Not specifying interest rates in contracts
- ✗ Not knowing the $10,000 small claims limit
- ✗ Filing in wrong county
- ✗ Skipping demand letters
When to Consult an Attorney
For invoices over $10,000 or complex disputes involving contract interpretation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the small claims limit in Indiana?
Indiana small claims courts handle disputes up to $10,000. Marion County (Indianapolis) has its own small claims court. Filing fees are $40-$85.
How long do I have to sue for an unpaid invoice in Indiana?
You have 6 years for both written and oral contracts. The clock starts from the breach date or last payment.
What interest rate can I charge on overdue invoices in Indiana?
Pre-judgment interest ranges from 6-10% per annum. Post-judgment interest is 8% unless your contract specifies a lower rate.
Where do I file a small claims case in Indiana?
File in the small claims court for the county where the defendant resides or does business. Marion County (Indianapolis) has dedicated small claims facilities.
Do I need a collection license in Indiana?
No state license is required to collect your own debts in Indiana. Third-party agencies must comply with federal FDCPA requirements.
Sources & References
These are reference sources only. Laws change—verify current statutes before taking action.
- Indiana Code § 34-51-4-9 (Interest)
- IC § 33-34-3-2 (Small Claims Jurisdiction)
- IC § 34-11-2-7 (Statute of Limitations)
- Indiana Judiciary - Small Claims
IMPORTANT LEGAL DISCLAIMER
This is NOT legal or financial advice. The information on this page is provided for general educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to be, and should not be construed as, legal, financial, or professional advice.
Laws change frequently. State laws, court rules, and regulations are subject to change without notice. The information presented here may not reflect the most current legal developments or may not apply to your specific situation.
Consult a licensed professional. Before taking any action based on the information on this website, you should consult with a licensed attorney in Indiana who can provide advice tailored to your specific circumstances.
No attorney-client relationship. Viewing this information does not create an attorney-client relationship between you and Happy Freelance Life or its creators.
No liability. Happy Freelance Life and its creators disclaim all liability for any actions taken or not taken based on any information on this website. You assume full responsibility for any decisions or actions you take based on this content.
If you need legal help, please contact the Indiana State Bar Association for attorney referrals or a legal aid organization in your area.
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Take the QuizThis information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a licensed Indiana attorney for specific legal guidance. This page was last updated on 2025-01-01. For current legal information, consult the official Indiana state statutes or a licensed Indiana attorney. Happy Freelance Life is not a law firm and does not provide legal services.