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On a US domestic itinerary, DOT rules cap airline liability for lost or damaged checked baggage at $3,800 per passenger — the airline can't limit you to less, though they can pay less based on the documented value of what was in your bag. On an international itinerary (even on a US carrier), the Montreal Convention sets a lower international cap of about 1,288 SDR, roughly $1,700-$1,800 depending on exchange rates.
The catch is timing: you generally need to report damage within 24 hours to 7 days depending on the airline and regime, and file a formal written claim within 21 days for a delayed bag. Report at the airport before you leave whenever you can — it's the strongest version of your claim.