if you loose in small claims court, how long do you have to pay?

I'm not sure where you are, but here in Georgia it is up to you and the creditor to work it out.

I work in collections and usually when I win the case the judge will allow us to work out the payment plan there and he will write it up and all parties including the judge will sign it. If the customer defaults on these arrangements, then I can get a garnishment or levy with not problem.

Until the judgement amount is paid off. That will vary depending on the payments you work out with the Court or Plaintiff.

probably depends on each court. ask them! they might be able to allow you to pay in installments.

if you lose do you pay the courts or send to the other party