Small claims in each part of the UK

If your client still hasn't paid after your letter before action, you can ask a court to order them to pay. For smaller debts each part of the UK has a simpler process that's designed for people without a solicitor.

PaidStraight doesn't prepare court documents or act for you. This page explains the route and links to the official service. It's general information, not legal advice. If the client disputes the debt, or the amount is large, talk to a solicitor first.

Before you start:

• Make sure the letter before action's reply date has passed.
• Gather the invoice, your reminders, the final notice and the letter. Your invoice page in PaidStraight lists every email sent and when.
• Check the client still exists. A company that's been dissolved or is in liquidation usually can't be sued in the normal way.
• There's a court fee to start a claim. It depends on the amount; the official pages below list the current fees.

England and Wales

• Route: a money claim in the County Court. Claims up to £10,000 are usually dealt with as small claims.
• Start online: Money Claim Online.
• Guidance and fees: Make a court claim for money (gov.uk).
• You have 6 years from the due date to claim.

Scotland

• Route: simple procedure in the sheriff court, for claims up to £5,000.
• Start online: Civil Online.
• Guidance and fees: Simple procedure (Scottish Courts and Tribunals).
• In Scotland a debt usually ends 5 years after it was due, so don't wait.

Northern Ireland

• Route: the small claims process in the County Court, for claims up to £5,000.
• Guidance, fees and how to apply: Small claims process (nidirect).
• You have 6 years from the due date to claim.

If your client is somewhere else

The court usually depends on where your client is, not only where you are. If your client is in a different part of the UK, check the guidance for their area before you claim.