text: This is a difficult question because, from your statement, I'm guessing that you don't have a lien on the computers -- you just sold them to him and he has an outstanding balance.  Thus, in general, you don't have a possessory interest in the computers (you're just his creditor--you have an interest in the $1,900). Thus, it is likely that you can't repossess the computers.  You can allege a breach of contract (you performed and he didn't pay) and seek monetary damages ($1900 + interest) and perhaps seek recission of the contract (asking the court to "unmake" the contract) to result in the return of his money and his return of your pcs (although i'd guess that you couldn't resell them for the same retail value, since they're a year old).\n\nNonetheless, you do have to file an action -- try small claims court (sometimes call reconciliation court, or city court, or something like that, depending upon your state).  Usually they can handle cases up to $2-3,000, and there are not a lot of formal requirements.  Then you have a judgment upon which you could collect (by either him paying you or you attaching a judgment debtor lien on some of his property).  Unless he's willing, it's highly unlikely that you could repossess the computers without this process.\n\nAlso, consider talking to an attorney -- perhaps at legal aid. A per-hour attorney is probably not going to take this case because of its low monetary value, although if you have a regular attorney, he may be willing to take it "pro bono," perhaps as training for a younger associate with his office.