Demand letters
How do I send a CLRA notice letter in California?
Updated · By the Certified Letter Online team
Under California Civil Code 1782, at least 30 days before suing for damages under the Consumers Legal Remedies Act you must notify the business of the specific violations and demand that it correct, repair, replace or otherwise rectify them. The notice must be in writing and sent by certified or registered mail, return receipt requested, to the place where the transaction occurred or the business's principal place of business in California.
If the business offers an appropriate correction within 30 days, a damages claim may be barred. A claim only for injunctive relief doesn't need the prior notice.
| Element | What to include |
|---|---|
| Timing | At least 30 days before filing a damages claim |
| Method | Certified or registered mail, return receipt requested |
| Address | Where the transaction occurred, or principal place of business in California |
| Content | The particular alleged violations of Civil Code 1770 |
| Demand | That the business correct, repair, replace or otherwise rectify the goods or services |
| Your proof | Copy of the letter, certified receipt, return receipt |
How to write it
- Describe the purchase: date, item or service, price, order number.
- State what was misrepresented or wrong and, if you can, which item of Civil Code 1770(a) it falls under.
- Demand a specific fix (refund, repair, replacement) within 30 days.
- Send it Certified with return receipt; our CLRA notice template has the structure.
Important
CLRA cases often involve attorney fees and class actions. If the amount is large, talk to a California consumer attorney before sending.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. For your specific situation, a legal aid office or a licensed attorney in your state can tell you what applies.
Quick answers
Does a CLRA notice have to be sent certified mail?
Yes. Civil Code 1782 requires certified or registered mail, return receipt requested. An electronic return receipt is USPS's return receipt service.
Do I need a CLRA notice for small claims?
Small claims court asks whether you demanded payment first. A CLRA-style demand by certified mail satisfies that and preserves a later CLRA damages claim.
What happens if the business fixes the problem?
If it gives or agrees to give an appropriate correction within 30 days, you may not be able to sue for damages under the CLRA.
What to do next
Fill in the CLRA notice and we'll mail it Certified with return receipt for $17.99, the method Civil Code 1782 requires.
Send my CLRA noticeSources
Checked: . General information, not legal advice. Fees and rules change: confirm current values at the official links above.