§ 308 instructs how to serve process in New York State. Although it does not expressly include service by e-mail, case law is evolving so that service via e-mail is increasingly accepted by New York courts.
This letter will indicate whether your military points were applied to your score. If the military points were not applied and you believe they should have been, you will need to contact Civil Service Certification Department via email at civil.service@suffolkcountyny.
Conclusion: Going to small claims court may be worth it for $500, but it will determine how you weigh your costs versus benefits. At a minimum, it is worth it to send a demand letter.
On Long Island, there are also dozens of town and village courts that handle small claims; use the New York court's website to locate a specific town or village court. Remember, the small claims limits in town and village courts is $3,000. While in district and city courts the small claims limit is $5,000.