Motion to strike or tax costs
A motion to strike or tax costs must be served and filed within 15 days after service of the cost memorandum. Enter the service date and method.
- CRC 3.1700(b)
- CCP 1013
- CCP 1010.6
Find your motion deadline
Challenging a memorandum of costs.
The day of service is not counted.
Holidays and court closures
California judicial holidays under CCP 135 are always skipped, including Lincoln's Birthday, Cesar Chavez Day and Native American Day.
For weather or emergency closures. Check the court's notice to confirm it extends deadlines.
How the deadline is counted
- Count 15 days after service of the memorandum of costs.
- Add time for the service method. Mail adds 5, 10 or 20 calendar days. Electronic service and overnight delivery add 2 court days.
- Move past closed days to the next court day.
Worked examples
| Example | Memo served | Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Electronic service | Mon, Oct 26, 2026 | Fri, Nov 13, 2026 |
| Mail within California | Mon, Oct 26, 2026 | Mon, Nov 16, 2026 |
Unless objection is made to the entire cost memorandum, the motion must refer to each item objected to by the same number and appear in the same order as the memorandum (rule 3.1700(b)(2)). If no motion is filed in time, the clerk enters the costs.
Common questions
How long do I have to move to tax costs in California?
15 days after service of the memorandum of costs, plus any extension for the service method.
Can the deadline be extended?
Yes. The parties may agree, or the court may order, an extension of up to 30 days (rule 3.1700(b)(3)).
What happens if I miss it?
The clerk enters the costs claimed, and objections may be waived.
Sources
- California Rules of Court, rule 3.1700(b)
- Code of Civil Procedure, section 1013
- Code of Civil Procedure, section 1010.6
Rules last checked October 2026. This calculator does not give legal advice. Confirm the date against the rule and any order in your case.