Small Claims Court Fees: How Much Do They Cost?
Key Takeaways
- – The Small Claims Court handles disputes of £10,000 or less in England and Wales.
- – Court fees for monetary small claims vary by amount, ranging from £35 to £120.
- – A fixed fee of £250 applies to non-monetary small claims.
As the name suggests, Small Claims Court is intended for relatively minor disputes. In England and Wales, a small claim can amount to £10,000 or less against a person, business or company.
For non-monetary small claims, the court fee is £250. For monetary claims, court fees are determined by the value:
| Amount Claimed | Small Claims Court Fee |
| up to £300 | £35 |
| Up to £500 | £50 |
| Up to £1,000 | £80 |
| Up to £5,000 | £120 |
If you win your case, the judgment in your favour will usually include your court fee. The other side will have to pay your court fee, and the money awarded under the claim. If they fail to do so you might need to take further steps including enforcement. That requires additional steps, costs and processes to be completed.
FAQs
What is the Small Claims Court?
In England and Wales, the Small Claims Court deals with relatively minor civil disputes. It’s suitable for straightforward claims between individuals, businesses or companies.
What is the small claims court limit?
In England and Wales, a small claim is generally £10,000 or less.
How much are small claims court fees (UK)?
In England and Wales, small claims fees depend on the type and value of the claim. Non-monetary claims have a fixed fee of £250. Monetary claims have tiered fees based on the amount claimed (see the bands below).
What are the fees for monetary small claims?
Current fee bands for England and Wales are:
- Up to £300: £35
- Up to £500: £50
- Up to £1,000: £80
- Up to £5,000: £120
Is there a fixed fee for non-monetary small claims?
Yes. The fee is £250.
If I win, do I get my court fee back?
Usually, yes. If you win, the judgment typically includes your court fee, which the other side will be ordered to pay along with any money awarded under the claim.
What if the other side doesn’t pay after I win?
You may need to take enforcement action. This involves further steps, processes and additional costs.