Default judgment in Indiana: how to set it aside

What a default judgment means and how to ask the court to set it aside, with a deadline calculator.

Checked against official sources: Oct 24, 2026.

Short answer

A default judgment means the court decided against you because you didn't answer. Small claims: file a written request to vacate (set aside) the default judgment within 1 year after it was entered and show good cause; the judge holds a hearing and, if granted, sets a new trial.

Shortest time to ask
1 year (Small claims: request to vacate)
Time to answer
20 days

How a default happens in Indiana

If you do not appear on the trial date, the court may enter a default judgment after checking service and that the plaintiff has a basic (prima facie) case. Court costs are charged to you. The court mails you notice of the judgment.

Asking the court to undo a default in Indiana

Small claims: file a written request to vacate (set aside) the default judgment within 1 year after it was entered and show good cause; the judge holds a hearing and, if granted, sets a new trial. After 1 year, relief is only through Trial Rule 60(B). Under T.R. 60(B), a motion for mistake, surprise or excusable neglect and similar reasons (1)-(4) must be filed within 1 year and must allege a meritorious defense; other reasons (such as a void judgment) within a reasonable time.

Law: Ind. Small Claims Rule 10(C); Ind. Trial Rule 60(B)

Count your deadline to set aside a default

The date is counted in your browser.

The court's name is at the top of the judgment.

An estimate from our state data, not legal advice. Court holidays and local rules can change a deadline. File early, and ask the court clerk if you are not sure.

Interest and how long it lasts in Indiana

Interest after the judgment

The rate in the contract you were sued on, but no more than 8% a year; or 8% a year if there was no contract. Interest runs from the date of judgment until paid.

How long it lasts

A judgment is considered satisfied after 20 years. It is a lien on real estate in the county where it is entered for 10 years.

Law: IC 24-4.6-1-101; IC 34-11-2-12; IC 34-55-9-2

After a judgment in Indiana

Military service and defaults

Before the court gives the plaintiff a default judgment, the plaintiff must file a sworn statement saying whether you are in military service.

Law: 50 U.S.C. 3931(b)(1)

What to do now in Indiana

  1. Find the judgment

    The judgment's date matters. Ask the clerk for a copy.

  2. Act within the time limit

    Indiana's rule: Small claims: file a written request to vacate (set aside) the default judgment within 1 year after it was entered and show good cause; the judge holds a hearing and, if granted, sets a new trial.

  3. Say why you missed it

    Most courts want to know why you didn't answer and what your defense is. Attach your answer if the court asks.

  4. Protect your money

    Read After a judgment in Indiana.

Where to get free help in Indiana

Questions about default judgments in Indiana

How long do I have to answer a debt lawsuit in Indiana?

Small claims: you do not have to file a written answer. All your defenses are kept for trial; go to court on the date in the Notice of Claim. If you want a jury trial, you must ask no later than 10 days after you are served. Circuit or superior court (plenary docket): 20 days after you are served; add 3 days if the papers were served by mail. You can get one automatic 30-day extension by filing a notice with the court on or before the original due date.

What happens if I don't answer in Indiana?

If you do not appear on the trial date, the court may enter a default judgment after checking service and that the plaintiff has a basic (prima facie) case. Court costs are charged to you. The court mails you notice of the judgment.

Can I cancel a default judgment in Indiana?

Small claims: file a written request to vacate (set aside) the default judgment within 1 year after it was entered and show good cause; the judge holds a hearing and, if granted, sets a new trial. After 1 year, relief is only through Trial Rule 60(B). Under T.R. 60(B), a motion for mistake, surprise or excusable neglect and similar reasons (1)-(4) must be filed within 1 year and must allege a meritorious defense; other reasons (such as a void judgment) within a reasonable time.

Related Indiana pages

Sources

Sources

Last checked: Oct 24, 2026.

Federal sources